The 13th annual Donington Historic Festival captivated audiences last weekend (May 4 and 5) with a grand showcase of vintage race cars spanning the 1920s through the 1990s. Renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere, this year’s festival not only delivered exhilarating races but also featured a breathtaking display of two iconic Bentleys from the early 2000s, known for their triumphs at Le Mans. These models, the 2000 Bentley EXP Speed 8 and the 2003 Bentley Speed 8, took center stage, zooming around the Donington Park to mark the centennial of Bentley’s inaugural Le Mans victory.
The event boasted the presence of motorsport royalty such as Rob Huff and Guy Smith, who respectively took the wheels of the Bentleys. Adding to the spectacle, a RAF Spitfire performed a flypast, making for a memorable sight against the backdrop of revving engines and speeding classics. Insights into Bentley’s victorious Le Mans campaigns were shared during a special Q&A, highlighting personal stories from the track and behind the scenes.
Racing legends and modern champions converged on the track, with notable appearances by Le Mans winners Guy Smith and David Brabham, along with a lineup of Touring Car champions like Rob Huff and Jake Hill. The races were nothing short of thrilling, featuring a mix of trophy challenges and classic showdowns, such as the Royal Automobile Club Woodcote and Stirling Moss Trophy race, and the action-packed Historic Touring Car Challenge.
The festival atmosphere extended beyond the racetrack with an array of off-track attractions. Attendees enjoyed access to the paddock, engaged with automotive artists, and explored a variety of trade stands. Car enthusiasts had the chance to take a nostalgic trip with Dream Rides in classic and supercars, and admired impressive displays by 55 car clubs, including a special assembly of over 200 Porsches marking a milestone anniversary for the iconic brand.
The Donington Historic Festival proved once again why it is a pinnacle event for classic racing fans, offering a blend of high-speed action, historical celebrations, and community festivities that left every visitor with a lasting impression and a smile.
