In art exhibitions, hors concours works are typically those by established or well-known artists who are invited to participate outside of the regular selection process. These works are often displayed in a separate section of the exhibition and are not judged alongside the other entries.
In film festivals, hors concours films may include classics or retrospectives from prominent filmmakers, documentaries, or short films that are not eligible for the festival's main awards.
In sports competitions, hors concours athletes or teams may be those who have already qualified for a higher level of competition or have been invited to participate as guests. They may compete in exhibition matches or events alongside the main competition, but they are not eligible for the primary prizes.
The term hors concours is used to recognize the achievements and contributions of these special participants or entries while acknowledging that they are not directly competing for the same awards as the main competitors.