The storied Geneva International Motor Show, a cornerstone of the automotive calendar since 1905, will be permanently canceled, its organizers announced on Friday. This decision marks the end of an era for the prestigious event, which has faced dwindling interest from automakers and growing competition from other international shows.
The first Geneva International Motor Show debuted in 1905, drawing an impressive 17,000 visitors. Held over just a few days, it established Geneva as a key location for automotive innovation and luxury. Despite early setbacks—including a pause during World War I and the economic turmoil of the early 20th century—the show resumed in 1923, gradually becoming a premier destination for car enthusiasts and industry insiders alike.
The event reached its zenith in 2005, attracting a record 750,000 visitors and becoming a must-attend showcase for the world’s leading automakers. However, the COVID-19 pandemic dealt a severe blow to the Geneva Motor Show, leading to its cancellation for four consecutive years. Attempts to revive it earlier this year saw a turnout of only 168,000 visitors and 37 exhibitors, a stark contrast to the 602,000 attendees and 184 exhibitors seen in 2019.
The decision to cancel the Geneva Salon is extremely regrettable,” said Alexandre de Senarclens, president of the foundation’s permanent committee. “The lack of interest shown by manufacturers, combined with the competitive pressures from the Paris and Munich shows, and the substantial investments required to sustain the event, have forced us to make this difficult choice.”
The announcement came with a formal request to the cantonal authorities to dissolve the foundation behind the show. Organizers cited the automotive industry’s evolving landscape and the diminishing allure of European auto shows as critical factors in their decision.
In a surprising twist, the Geneva International Motor Show’s legacy will partially continue through its Qatar edition, which debuted successfully last year. The next edition in Doha is slated for November 2025, promising to carry forward the event’s innovative spirit in a new market.
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