Television presenter and motoring enthusiast Richard Hammond will return to Blenheim Palace this September for Salon Privé 2026, following the success of his appearance at last year’s luxury automotive event.
The former Top Gear and The Grand Tour presenter has been confirmed as one of the headline attractions for Supercar Saturday and Supercar Sunday (05 & 06 September), where he will meet visitors, take part in special appearances and return as a judge for the prestigious Concours de Vente.
Salon Privé, which celebrates its 21st edition in 2026, brings together some of the world’s most exceptional cars, collectors and enthusiasts at the Oxfordshire UNESCO World Heritage site. Hammond’s return adds another high-profile name to this year’s programme, which includes new concours classes celebrating modern supercars and hypercars.
During the weekend, visitors will have the opportunity to meet Hammond at bottle signing sessions and discover his range of premium spirits, including Ratio Gin, Iron Ridge Whisky and his new Hammond’s Bearing Caribbean Spiced Rum, which will make its public debut at the event.
Hammond will also host an exclusive question and answer session in the Boodles Club Lounge, offering Club Members the chance to hear about his broadcasting career, passion for motoring and latest business ventures.
On Sunday 06 September, Hammond will join the judging panel for the Salon Privé Concours de Vente, selecting a winning vehicle from a collection of exceptional cars offered for sale by leading dealers, restorers and specialists. He will be joined by Top Gear editor-at-large Jason Barlow and broadcaster and racing driver Amanda Stretton.
Speaking about his return, Hammond said: “Salon Privé is one of my favourite events to attend. The cars are extraordinary, the setting at Blenheim Palace is hard to beat and it’s full of people who genuinely love motoring.”
He added that the event’s appeal comes not only from the vehicles on display, but from meeting the owners and enthusiasts behind them.
Salon Privé co-founder David Bagley said Hammond’s return followed a “fantastic response” from visitors in 2025, describing him as a genuine motoring enthusiast whose passion for cars is clear whenever he discusses the subject.
Salon Privé Blenheim takes place from 02 to 06 September 2026, with Supercar Saturday and Supercar Sunday forming part of the week-long celebration of automotive excellence, heritage and luxury.
