The Goodwood Festival of Speed is one of the most popular and prestigious events in the world of motorsport and car culture. In this, we will be talking about some of the top facts about the infamous motorsporting festival.
The festival was founded in 1993 by Lord March, who wanted to bring motor racing back to the Goodwood estate, a location steeped in British motor racing history. The Goodwood track is located on the grounds of the Goodwood Estate.
The festival features a 1.16-mile hill climb, where modern and historic cars and bikes compete to set the fastest time. The fastest recorded run around the track was done by Max Chilton in the McMurtry Spierling electric car in only 39.08 seconds.
The festival also showcases the latest supercars, hypercars and electric cars in the First Glance and Electric Avenue paddocks, as well as the Future Lab, where visitors can learn about the innovations of the future.
The festival celebrates a different theme each year, highlighting the achievements and milestones of various manufacturers, drivers and eras. The theme for 2023 is ‘Goodwood 75’, marking 75 years of motoring and motorsport at Goodwood, as well as 30 years of the festival itself.
The festival plays host to some of the most recognisable names in the field of motorsports, who drive or ride some of the most iconic machines ever created. Legends such as Lewis Hamilton, Valentino Rossi, Sebastian Vettel, Ken Block and many more have experienced the hill climb over the years.
The festival also features a stunning Central Feature, a giant sculpture that dominates the skyline in front of Goodwood House. The Central Feature changes every year to reflect the theme or honour a specific brand. In 2023, the Central Feature celebrates Porsche, with six models representing its history and future.
The festival is not only about cars and bikes, but also about aviation. The festival hosts spectacular air displays by the Red Arrows, the UK’s premier aerobatic flying team, as well as other interesting planes and helicopters.
If you are a fan of motorsport and car culture, you don’t want to miss the Goodwood Festival of Speed. It is truly a unique and unforgettable experience for anyone who loves speed. Also, it gives the spectators an opportunity to witness some of the most interesting vehicles and the newest ones in the market.
