Goodwood Revival
Established: 1998
Founder: Charles Gordon-Lennox, 11th Duke of Richmond
Location: Goodwood Motor Circuit, Chichester, West Sussex, England
Duration: 3 days (typically held in September)
Theme: Celebration of the golden age of motorsport (1940s–1960s)
Dress Code: Period-appropriate attire (1940s–1960s) required for all attendees
Website: goodwood.com/motorsport/revival/
Historical Significance
Goodwood Revival was founded in 1998 by Charles Gordon-Lennox, the 11th Duke of Richmond, as a tribute to the golden age of motorsport and the history of the Goodwood Motor Circuit. The Goodwood Circuit itself was originally opened in 1948 as a permanent race track and quickly became one of the most iconic and challenging circuits in British motorsport. It hosted legendary races and attracted famous drivers and teams from around the world, including Juan Manuel Fangio, Stirling Moss, and Mike Hawthorn.
The Goodwood Revival was created to revive the spirit and excitement of these early years of motorsport. Unlike modern racing events, the Revival focuses on authenticity, requiring all attendees—from spectators to drivers—to dress in period-appropriate attire from the 1940s, 1950s, or 1960s. This immersive approach transforms the event into a living museum, where visitors can step back in time and experience the glamour, thrill, and nostalgia of classic racing.
The event also celebrates the cultural and social history of the era. The Goodwood Estate, which has been the home of the Dukes of Richmond for over 300 years, provides a stunning and historic backdrop for the Revival. The event honors the legacy of British motorsport while also paying tribute to the global impact of racing during the mid-20th century.
Over the years, Goodwood Revival has grown into one of the most prestigious and popular historic motorsport events in the world. It attracts thousands of visitors, classic car enthusiasts, and motorsport legends, all of whom come to celebrate the history, heritage, and excitement of racing’s golden age.
Motorsport Races
- Historic Races – Goodwood Revival features a range of historic races, showcasing classic cars and motorcycles from the 1940s to the 1960s. These races include iconic events such as:
- Goodwood Trophy – A race for pre-war and post-war Grand Prix cars, celebrating the early days of motorsport.
- Lavant Cup – A race for pre-1960 sports cars, featuring iconic models such as the Jaguar C-Type and Aston Martin DB3S.
- Glendower Trophy – A race for 1960s GT cars, including Ferrari 250 GT and Shelby Cobra.
- St. Mary’s Trophy – A race for 1960s saloon cars, featuring classic models like the Mini Cooper and Lotus Cortina.
- Barry Sheene Memorial Trophy – A race for classic motorcycles, honoring the legendary British racer Barry Sheene.
- Parades and Demonstrations – In addition to races, the Revival features parades and demonstrations of historic vehicles, including rare and iconic cars and motorcycles. These parades often highlight specific themes or eras, such as the 1950s Le Mans cars or 1960s Formula 1 machines.
- Paddock Access – Visitors to Goodwood Revival can explore the paddock area, where they can get up close to the classic cars and motorcycles, meet the drivers and teams, and learn about the history and restoration of these historic vehicles.
