The stage is set for one of historic motorsport’s most thrilling spectacles as the 2025 Donington Historic Festival gears up to roar into action from May 2nd to 4th. Whether you’re a die-hard racing enthusiast or a family in search of a day out steeped in automotive history, this three-day extravaganza promises something truly special for everyone.
A Historic Weekend Reimagined
For decades, Donington Park has been synonymous with motorsport heritage, and this year’s festival is set to elevate that legacy further. In a first for the event, racing will now take place on the iconic Donington Park GP circuit—a track that will see vintage machines battle it out through the famous Fogarty Esses, round the challenging Melbourne Hairpin, through the legendary Goddards, and then unleash their power down the Wheatcroft Straight toward the formidable Redgate corner. This new circuit not only brings an extra layer of excitement for competitors but also provides spectators with breathtaking views of high-octane action set against a backdrop of racing history.
A Diverse Line-Up of Racing Excellence
Under the expert management of Motor Racing Legends, the 2025 festival features an impressive 17 races across 12 world-class historic grids. Enthusiasts will witness a parade of machines spanning ten decades—from the nimble Formula Junior cars of the ’50s and ’60s to the powerhouse GT3 Legends of the 2010s. The entry lists are no strangers to stardom, often boasting familiar names from past and present-day BTCC and Le Mans competitions, all of whom bring an infectious passion to the track.
The event isn’t just about the races. Fans will also enjoy exclusive Formula One and Super Touring car demonstrations that add a modern twist to the historic proceedings, alongside an array of paddock and infield attractions that capture the essence of classic motorsport.
Friday, 2 May: Kick-Starting the Celebration
The weekend opens on Friday with a series of adrenaline-pumping qualifying sessions and races that set the tone for what’s to come. The day begins with the spirited Formula Junior action in the FJHRA ‘Silverline’ Championship, featuring two sets of qualifying sessions that showcase the agility and vintage charm of these small single-seaters.
Motorsport purists will relish the qualifying for the “Mad Jack” Pre-War Sports Cars—vehicles that evoke the romance and raw power of the early days of racing at Donington Park. The U2TC, featuring under-two-litre touring cars from the early 1960s, adds to the eclectic mix, while Ferrari aficionados are in for a treat with the first of three Superformance Ferrari Classic Series races. Throughout the day, spectators can enjoy an interlude of qualifying sessions for Pre-War Sports Cars and more, ensuring that every moment is steeped in the passion and legacy of historic racing.
A leisurely lunch break featuring a Supercar Driver display and a vibrant clubs parade rounds off the day, providing families and fans the perfect opportunity to soak in the atmosphere before more racing action takes center stage in the late afternoon and early evening.
Saturday, 3 May: A Day of Grand Celebrations
Saturday’s program is nothing short of a grand celebration of motorsport history. Kicking off with the Historic Touring Car Challenge featuring the Tony Dron Trophy, the day’s schedule is packed with high-energy qualifying sessions that highlight a collection of legendary machines from the 1970s and ‘80s.
The day takes on an extra layer of significance with a special tribute to Richard ‘Mad Jack’ Shuttleworth’s historic 1935 victory in the Donington GP—a nod to the pioneers whose daring exploits continue to inspire modern racers. Fans will enjoy a diverse array of races, including the return of the Pre-War Sports Cars event, more action-packed rounds in the U2TC category, and the much-anticipated GT3 Legends battles that pit the modern classics against each other in a contest of speed and strategy.
The racing spectacle reaches its crescendo with the epic Royal Automobile Club Pall Mall Cup—a three-hour marathon race that promises nail-biting excitement and showcases the endurance and skill of some of the finest drivers in historic motorsport. Intermittently, visitors are treated to trackside demonstrations, including a high-octane Formula One display that hints at what’s to come later in the festival.
Sunday, 4 May: The Ultimate Tribute to Touring Cars
For touring car enthusiasts, Sunday is the day to mark on the calendar. The final day of the festival is a vibrant homage to classic tin-tops, offering an extensive lineup of races that include the Historic Touring Car Challenge with the Tony Dron Trophy, the HRDC ‘Gerry Marshall Trophy Series’, and the HRDC ‘Jack Sears Trophy’. Each race is a testament to the engineering marvels of past decades and the enduring legacy of British touring car racing.
Racing continues throughout the day with further action in the GT3 Legends category and an additional round of the Superformance Ferrari Club Classic Series. Beyond the races, the festival ensures that every visitor experiences the best of the automotive world through additional attractions such as a trade village, the ever-popular infield displays featuring hundreds of cherished classic cars, and the lively clubs parades that wind through the paddock and pitlane.
Adding to the excitement are more track demonstrations, including a second round of Formula One action and Super Touring displays, all designed to keep the adrenaline high and the crowd engaged right until the very end.
Beyond the Track: A Festival for All
While the heart of the festival is undoubtedly the racing, Donington Historic 2025 is a celebration of the entire motorsport culture. The event offers a host of ancillary attractions, including:
- Supercar Driver Displays: Watch in awe as modern supercars line up alongside historic machines, creating a juxtaposition of automotive eras.
- Trade Village: Explore a variety of exhibitors, from memorabilia to the latest in motorsport gear.
- Charity Passenger Drives: With the Sporting Bears charity drives, even those who don’t get behind the wheel can experience a taste of racing excitement.
- Club Parades: A visual feast for fans, with dozens of car clubs showcasing their prized vehicles in beautifully coordinated parades.
Ticket Information: Exceptional Value for an Unforgettable Experience
One of the festival’s most appealing aspects is its accessibility. Advance discounted tickets start at just £15 for an adult (16+), with further reductions for teens aged 13-15, and admission is free for under 13s. For those looking to experience the full breadth of the weekend’s action, the three-day ticket is available at an exceptional value of £45 for adults and £28 for teens. With such attractive pricing, the 2025 Donington Historic Festival is a must-attend event for motorsport fans and families alike.
Secure Your Place in Motorsport History
The 2025 Donington Historic Festival promises an unparalleled fusion of historic racing thrills, modern demonstrations, and an ambiance that pays tribute to the golden age of motorsport. With a meticulously planned timetable that caters to both the devoted racing aficionado and the curious newcomer, there has never been a better time to immerse yourself in a weekend where every lap, every roar of an engine, and every moment of on-track action tells a story.
For more information and to secure your tickets, visit www.doningtonhistoric.com. Mark your calendars, gather your family and friends, and get ready to be a part of an automotive celebration that transcends time—a true festival of speed, skill, and timeless passion.
