Described as "one of the best and brightest academic minds in the automotive space," John Nikas is an automotive writer who specializes in weaving social, cultural and economic themes into his compelling narratives about automotive history.
Recipient of the International Motor Press Association's Ken W. Purdy Award for Excellence in Automotive Journalism and awarded the AACA'S Thomas McKean Memorial Cup for Book of the Year and Outstanding Contribution to Automotive Research in 2025, John has also received recognition from the Automotive Heritage Foundation (2020), WISG Outstanding Annual Achievement (2023) and been honored with the Denise McCluggage Award (2012). Among his other plaudits, John has been a finalist or the runner-up for numerous Book of the Year awards including the Mercedes-Benz Award (2017), Montagu of Beaulieu Trophy (2017), International Historic Motoring Awards (2024) and the Royal Automobile Club (2024).
His books have reached the top of the Amazon sales rankings (for automotive books) on seven separate occasions and been recognized as Book of the Month by Octane, Classic Cars, Classic & Sports Car, Hemmings, Sports Car Market and The Automobile. The list of individuals that he has collaborated with comprise an Automotive Who's Who, including the Duke of Richmond, Alain d'Cadenet, Wayne Carini, Denise McCluggage, Bob Tullius, Jim Busby, Norm Dewis, Jackie Oliver, Trevor Harris, Tony Southgate, Bruce Meyer, Bruce McCaw, Sir Michael Kadoorie, Gordon Murray, Stewart Reed, Robert Cumberford, Graham Robson, Fred Simeone, Tom Matano, Henrik Fisker, Franz von Holzhausen, Louis de Fabribeckers, Ed Welburn and Andrea Zagato
A noted vintage racing driver, Nikas has campaigned a broad array of classic racers in a number of different series, where he has collected multiple class championships and received special recognition for his on and off track accomplishments. One of the nation's most respected driving instructors, he has played an instrumental role in the development of countless racers, including several talented professionals and a finalist for the prestigious Gorsline Award. Among his many successes is an overall victory in the 2011 Mille Miglia North American Tribute, which was the focus of a television special that appeared on the Bravo Channel.
John is frequently asked to speak or make special appearances at various automotive events around the world, which have included numerous stops at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance Forum, Amelia Island, Goodwood Revival, Goodwood Festival of Speed, Hampton Court Palace, The Quail, Blackhawk Museum, Monterey Car Week, The Simeone Foundation Museum and the Concours d'Lemons. Known for his authoritative knowledge, quick wit and entertaining delivery, he has also been featured on various television and news programs, including spots on ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox News, EXTRA!, L'Equipe, MotorTrend TV, Speedvision and formerly served as the Executive Director of the Madison Avenue Sports Car Driving and Chowder Society in New York City.
John always has a number of book projects underway, but continues to write for a number of automotive publications around the world, including magazines located in America, France, Germany and the United Kingdom.
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