Are you ready for an unforgettable weekend filled with the roar of engines and the presence of racing legends? The Goodwood Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard is gearing up to deliver an incredible experience this July. For over 30 years, this event has been the ultimate destination to witness the biggest names in motorsport, and this year promises to be truly exceptional. Get ready to see world-renowned drivers and riders, celebrating some significant anniversaries.
A Tribute to Endurance: Derek Bell
On Thursday, July 10, Goodwood will honor a true titan of endurance racing, Derek Bell MBE. He boasts an incredible record of five Le Mans victories, three Daytona 24 Hours championships, and two World Sportscar championships. The celebration marks the 50th anniversary of his first 24 Hours of Le Mans win. In 1975, Bell achieved this triumph in the Mirage-Ford GR8 with co-driver Jacky Ickx. This victory began his remarkable journey in endurance racing. Bell will reunite with his 1975 Mirage-Ford GR8. He will drive it up the iconic Hill before greeting the enthusiastic crowds at Goodwood House.
WorldSBK Royalty: Carl Fogarty Returns
Friday, July 11, brings another legendary figure to the forefront: four-time WorldSBK Champion Carl Fogarty. ‘Foggy’ will be back with his Championship-winning Ducati 916 throughout the weekend. A special balcony moment on Friday will celebrate his incredible career. This appearance marks the 30th anniversary of his 1995 championship victory. Fogarty will ride his Ducati 916 up the famous hillclimb. He will then arrive at Goodwood House, much to the delight of the fans. This moment forms part of the Festival’s largest WorldSBK celebration ever. Over 20 iconic bikes from the championship’s golden era will be present. Many of Fogarty’s fellow riders and fiercest rivals will also join.
Formula 1 Greats: A Gathering of Champions
Saturday, July 12, promises to be a historic day for Formula 1 fans. The Festival of Speed will host a special balcony moment for seven Formula 1 World Champions. They are joining the extensive F1 75 celebrations. Each champion will drive a significant chassis from their celebrated careers. With a staggering 14 World Championships among them, this moment is simply unmissable.
The confirmed champions participating in this grand celebration include:
- Alain Prost: A four-time champion from 1985, 1986, 1989, and 1993, driving a McLaren MP4/2B.
- Emerson Fittipaldi: A two-time champion from 1972 and 1974, in a McLaren M23.
- Sir Jackie Stewart: A three-time champion from 1969, 1971, and 1973, in a Tyrrell 003 and 006.
- Jacques Villeneuve: The 1997 champion.
- Mario Andretti: The 1978 champion, in a Lotus 79.
- Mika Häkkinen: A two-time champion from 1998 and 1999, in a McLaren MP4/13.
- Nigel Mansell: The 1992 champion, in a Williams FW14B.
Karun Chandhok will host this spectacular balcony moment. He will conduct a series of insightful interviews with these living legends.
The Professor Returns: Alain Prost
Sunday, July 13, will feature another dedicated balcony moment for Alain Prost. Nicknamed ‘The Professor’ for his extraordinary racecraft, this four-time Formula 1 World Champion returns as Goodwood marks the 40th anniversary of his first World Championship. Throughout the weekend, Prost will drive his 1985 championship-winning McLaren MP4/4. Sunday’s celebration will culminate with his arrival outside Goodwood House. Fans will have an incredible opportunity to pay tribute to one of motorsport’s most revered figures.
The Ultimate Grid and Beyond
Beyond these thrilling balcony moments, Sunday, July 13, will also feature a spectacular procession. Many Formula 1 cars will tackle the famous hillclimb. This special event, named “The Ultimate Grid,” will honor some of the most celebrated cars and drivers. It will highlight those from the series’ past and present. This unique showcase celebrates the rich legacy and evolution of Formula 1. It commemorates its 75th anniversary. The full Festival of Speed timetable will be released in the coming weeks. Final tickets are still available. You can secure yours at goodwood.com.
Disclaimer Event schedules and participating individuals are subject to change. Please check the official Goodwood website for the most up-to-date information.
Source: Goodwood
