Normandy Beach Race
Vintage motorcycle and car race on Sword Beach
About Normandy Beach Race
The Normandy Beach Race is a unique event in France, created in 2019, which brings together pre-1947 motorcycles and cars on the Riva-Bella beach in Ouistreham, the historic Sword Beach. For three days in September, riders compete on a 200-meter track (an eighth of a mile) in the spirit of American sand races of the 1940s. The event attracted up to 120,000 visitors in 2023, making this beach race a popular phenomenon blending vintage motorsport, motorcycle culture, and a festive atmosphere.
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The spirit of American beach races in Normandy
Created in 2019 by three enthusiasts from the Paris region — Thomas Hervé, Jean-Marc Lazzari, and Marc Félix — who were regulars at sand races in England, Denmark, and the United States, the Normandy Beach Race is the first event of its kind in France. On the Riva-Bella beach in Ouistreham, the historic Sword Beach of the 1944 D-Day landings, pre-1947 motorcycles and cars launch down a 200-meter (one-eighth mile) track for standing start speed demonstrations.
Exceptional machines
The event brings together vintage motorcycles and automobiles from before 1947: Harley-Davidson, Indian, Triumph, Ford, Chevrolet, and many other legendary brands. Riders participate in friendly, untimed duels where only style counts. The spectacle of vintage engines roaring on the sand attracts enthusiasts from all over Europe.
A popular phenomenon
In just a few editions, the Normandy Beach Race has become a popular phenomenon: the 2023 edition broke all records with 120,000 visitors over three days, including 30,000 paying spectators on the beach. The event did not take place in 2024 but returned for its 5th edition in September 2025.
More than a race: a festival
Beyond the races, the Normandy Beach Race is a true cultural festival: rock'n'roll and rockabilly concerts, a vintage stand village, food stalls, vehicle exhibitions, and a retro atmosphere of the 1940s-1950s. The event celebrates a motorcycle and automotive culture steeped in nostalgia and passion.
Normandy Beach Race — edition 2026
The 6th edition of the Normandy Beach Race is expected in September 2026 on Riva-Bella beach in Ouistreham, featuring races of pre-1947 vintage motorcycles and cars.
6th Normandy Beach Race 2026
The 6th edition of the Normandy Beach Race is expected in September 2026 on Riva-Bella beach in Ouistreham. The event should resume its usual format: three days of races for pre-1947 motorcycles and cars on a 200-meter track, accompanied by a vintage village, concerts, and exhibitions.
Exact dates and details will be announced on normandybeachrace.com.
Prices Normandy Beach Race 2026
Practical information — Normandy Beach Race
Practical information
Location
Riva-Bella Beach, Ouistreham (14150), Calvados — Sword Beach.
Access
- By car: From Caen (15 km), take the D515 towards Ouistreham. From Paris (250 km), take the A13 then the Caen ring road.
- By bus: Twisto line from Caen city center.
- Parking: Dedicated parking lots near the beach.
Prices
- Beach access (race area): from €5 to €7 depending on the day
- Village and activities: free access
Ticketing
Online ticketing at normandybeachrace.com.
Contact
- Website: normandybeachrace.com
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Where does it take place — Normandy Beach Race
Plage de Riva-Bella — Sword Beach
Plage de Riva-Bella, 14150 Ouistreham