As the sun rises over the historic Goodwood Motor Circuit, anticipation reaches its peak for the 2024 Goodwood Revival, set to take place from Friday, 6th to Sunday, 8th September. This year’s Revival promises to be a celebration of heritage, innovation, and the enduring spirit of motorsport, with a packed schedule of events that honor the past while looking towards a more sustainable future.
Racing into a New Era
The 2024 Goodwood Revival marks a pivotal moment in the history of motorsport as all races will run exclusively on sustainable fuel. This groundbreaking move underscores Goodwood’s commitment to preserving the spirit of classic racing while embracing modern technological advancements. Over the course of the weekend, the circuit will roar with the sounds of 13 thrilling races, featuring an outstanding collection of historic racing machines. From pre-1963 GT cars competing for the Stirling Moss Memorial Trophy to World Championship sportscars from 1955-1960, this year’s Revival promises an unforgettable display of automotive excellence.
Honoring History: The 80th Anniversary of D-Day
One of the standout moments of the weekend will be the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings. In a poignant tribute to those who served, a special on-track parade will feature over 100 military machines that played crucial roles in the landings. This will be the largest gathering of military vehicles ever seen at Goodwood, with veterans John Dennett (Royal Navy) and George Chandler (Coastal Forces) honored alongside Chelsea Pensioners in what promises to be an emotional and reflective moment.
Beach Buggy Spectacle
Adding to the weekend’s eclectic mix, a daily parade of up to 100 pre-1966 beach buggies will open each day’s events. Celebrating the 60th anniversary of the original Meyers Manx beach buggy, this colorful display of beach-ready machines will bring a touch of the seaside to Goodwood, delighting spectators with their retro charm and unique designs.
Celebrating John Surtees: A Legacy Like No Other
This year’s Revival will also pay tribute to one of motorsport’s most extraordinary figures, John Surtees. As the only person to have won World Championships on both two and four wheels, Surtees’ legacy is unparalleled. The celebration will feature a diverse array of vehicles that defined his career, from 250cc, 350cc, and 500cc motorcycles to Grand Prix-winning cars and unlimited sports cars. This tribute promises to be a fitting homage to a man who redefined what it means to be a champion.
Star Drivers and Riders: A Who’s Who of Motorsport
The Goodwood Revival is known for attracting the biggest names in motorsport, and 2024 is no exception. Fans will have the opportunity to see legends like 23-time Isle of Man TT winner John McGuinness MBE, nine-time Le Mans winner Tom Kristensen, seven-time NASCAR Champion Jimmie Johnson, and four-time IndyCar Champion Dario Franchitti. Joining them will be Formula 1 World Champions Sir Jackie Stewart and Jacques Villeneuve, along with other notable figures such as Derek Bell, Karun Chandhok, and Max Chilton, ensuring that the Revival remains a star-studded affair.
Revive & Thrive: Vintage Fashion and Sustainable Living
Off the track, the Revival continues to embrace all things vintage with the Revive & Thrive Village, which this year has relocated to a new, more central location. This year’s workshops and demonstrations will showcase heritage skills and sustainable living practices, highlighting the importance of circular consumption. Led by experts like TV’s Dominic Chinea and Micaela Sharp, the Revive & Thrive Workshop will offer craft demonstrations, live restoration projects, and drop-in sewing activities. The fashion hub will feature the Best Dressed competition, fashion shows, and appearances by renowned figures such as David Gandy, Dita von Teese, and Patrick Grant.
Beyond the Circuit: A Celebration for All
Goodwood Revival is more than just a motorsport event—it’s a celebration for the whole family. Over the Road, visitors can enjoy a vintage fairground, explore the Revival High Street, attend the Bonhams|Cars auction, or relax at the Revival Cinema presented by Sky Cinema. New for 2024 is the Betty Richmond Driving School, which offers a nostalgic nod to the early days of driving education with 1950s-style simulators, inviting visitors to test their skills and challenge themselves to pass the ultimate driving test.
The weekend will also see the official unveiling of the Tyrrell Shed, a piece of motor racing history saved from demolition and relocated to Goodwood. This historic site, once the home of the Tyrrell Formula 1 team, will be open to the public for the first time, offering a unique glimpse into the sport’s rich past.
Finally, the Freddie March Spirit of Aviation presented by Bonhams|Cars will once again showcase a stunning collection of pre-1966 aircraft in a magnificent concours d’elegance, celebrating Goodwood’s deep aviation heritage and the legacy of Freddie March, the 9th Duke of Richmond.
As the Goodwood Revival prepares to open its gates, excitement builds for what promises to be a weekend of unparalleled celebration, blending the thrill of historic motorsport with a deep respect for history and a commitment to sustainability.
