The Goodwood Motor Circuit, today commemorated its 75th anniversary, marking a milestone in the world of motorsport. Since its inception in 1948, the circuit has been a crucible of historic and modern racing, shaping the landscape of British motorsport.
Inaugural Race with Stirling Moss
Founded by the 9th Duke and Duchess of Richmond on the converted perimeter road of RAF Westhampnett, the Goodwood Motor Circuit hosted its very first race meeting on September 18, 1948. This momentous occasion saw legendary driver Stirling Moss secure his first race win, cementing Goodwood as the spiritual home of British motor racing.
Over the years, the circuit became a playground for motorsport giants, welcoming World Champions like Jack Brabham, Jim Clark, Juan Manuel Fangio, and Sir Jackie Stewart, along with iconic racing teams including Brabham, Lotus, and McLaren. Even after racing ceased in 1966, Goodwood remained a favorite testing ground for these racing powerhouses.
Revival and Festival of Speed
In the early 1990s, the Earl of March, now the 11th Duke of Richmond, undertook the task of rejuvenating motorsport at Goodwood. This mission led to the birth of the Festival of Speed in 1993, a thrilling event set in the picturesque parkland surrounding Goodwood House. Five years later, in 1998, the Goodwood Revival took its first steps at the Motor Circuit, marking 50 years since the inaugural race.
Continuing this tradition, the 2023 Goodwood Revival was inaugurated by the Duke of Richmond, following in his grandfather’s footsteps by driving a Bristol 400.
A Year of Celebrations
The Goodwood 75 celebrations have made 2023 a remarkable year for motorsport enthusiasts. The Festival of Speed, which celebrated its 30th edition, featured Sebastian Vettel promoting his ‘Race Without Trace’ program, emphasizing sustainable fuel in Formula 1 cars. It also witnessed its grandest MotoGP celebration to date.
At the 25th Goodwood Revival, Sir Jackie Stewart paid tribute to the circuit by driving his 1973 Tyrrell 006, exactly 50 years after clinching his third world championship. The Revival introduced an all-sustainable fuel race and celebrated its first sustainably-fueled winner.
The Goodwood Road Racing Club (GRRC) commemorated its silver jubilee with special moments for founding members, including photo opportunities and grid walks during events.
Goodwood’s Evolution
In June, the Goodwood Motor Circuit unveiled its new Race Simulator Suite, equipped with four Exsim VR5 Simulators using D Box actuator technology. This addition allows motorsport enthusiasts to experience driving some of the most iconic cars that have graced the circuit.
To capture the essence of Goodwood’s 75-year history, a new publication titled “75 Years of Motorsport at Goodwood” was released, featuring captivating photographs and stories from across the decades.
As Goodwood looks forward to the next 75 years of motorsport, it continues to evolve while preserving its rich legacy in the world of racing.