The 2025 Festival of Speed, presented by Mastercard, will serve as the stage for an extraordinary tribute to a living legend in automotive engineering, Professor Gordon Murray CBE. Taking place from Thursday, July 10 to Sunday, July 13, Goodwood will celebrate Murray’s unparalleled 60-year career in motorsport and automotive design, with a Central Feature dedicated to his remarkable achievements.
For six decades, Murray’s philosophy of lightweight design, innovation, and driver-focused engineering has left an indelible mark on the automotive world. From his time as Technical Director at Brabham and McLaren Racing, where he designed five championship-winning Formula 1 cars, to his creation of the iconic McLaren F1 supercar, and the formation of Gordon Murray Automotive (GMA), his work has shaped some of the most revered cars in history.
A Monumental Tribute to a Visionary
Goodwood’s Central Feature, a focal point of the Festival of Speed, will take pride of place in front of the stately Goodwood House. The renowned sculptor Gerry Judah’s monumental installations have become synonymous with the event, and the 2025 feature will be no different. It will shine a spotlight on Murray’s extraordinary journey with a collection of his most significant race and road cars spanning his career, each a testament to his innovative approach to automotive design.
In addition to the stunning Central Feature, Gordon Murray Automotive will debut a new road car model in a world premiere, continuing the brand’s tradition of pushing the boundaries of performance and engineering. The new vehicle will no doubt garner the attention of enthusiasts and collectors, marking another milestone in GMA’s growing legacy.
A Legacy That Began at Goodwood
Goodwood and Gordon Murray share a rich history, dating back to 1993 when Murray’s McLaren F1 claimed the second-fastest time on the Hill at the inaugural Festival of Speed. That same year, Murray’s Light Car Company-designed Rocket made a surprise appearance at the event, parked outside the Stables. Later revealed to belong to George Harrison, the car became part of Goodwood folklore as the former Beatle drove it up the Hill, a moment etched in Festival history.
Since then, GMA has made a tradition of unveiling its exceptional cars at Goodwood, with recent debuts including the T.50 in 2021, the T.33 in 2022, and the T.33 Spider in 2023. This year, the company will continue that tradition, having already showcased the global dynamic debut of the T.50s at the 81st Goodwood Members’ Meeting in 2024.
The Philosophy Behind the Cars
Professor Gordon Murray has always believed that true automotive design transcends mere performance. “For 60 years, I’ve enjoyed the design and engineering challenge of pushing the boundaries of what’s possible—be it in racing or road cars,” said Murray. “The supercars that Gordon Murray Automotive builds today are inspired by every car I’ve designed, raced, and owned. Lightweight design, innovative use of materials, the latest technologies, and even bending the laws of physics come into all we do.”
This ethos of engineering perfection is the driving force behind GMA’s success, with each of its vehicles exemplifying Murray’s commitment to creating cars that deliver pure, uncompromised driving experiences. The cars are not just about speed; they’re about creating harmony between driver and machine—an experience that speaks to the heart of automotive passion.
The Duke of Richmond’s Tribute
As one of Goodwood’s long-standing figures, The Duke of Richmond CBE DL, expressed his admiration for Murray’s contributions: “Gordon has been a part of the Festival of Speed since the very beginning, and I’m delighted that he has chosen to celebrate his 60-year career here with us at Goodwood. His name is synonymous with engineering art and superlative automotive design, which has seen him triumph at the very pinnacle of motorsport with five world championships and create the most coveted supercars.”
Looking to the Future
Philip Lee, CEO of the Gordon Murray Group, spoke to the enduring legacy of Murray’s work, stating, “The GMA business is proud of its heritage and the rich tapestry of road and race cars that continue to inspire our design ethos and technological approach. Gordon’s illustrious career and unique approach to design and engineering influences all we do, contributing to the quality, status, and focus on driving perfection of the supercars we build today and those that will come in the future.”
In addition to celebrating Gordon Murray’s legacy, the 2025 Festival of Speed will also feature a massive celebration of Formula 1, alongside appearances from four-time WorldSBK Champion Carl Fogarty and many other motorsport legends.
Tickets for Thursday, Friday, and Sunday are still available at Goodwood.com. Don’t miss the chance to witness the extraordinary engineering feats that have defined Professor Gordon Murray’s 60-year career and to be part of an unforgettable moment at one of motorsport’s most prestigious events.
A Moment in Time
As the sun sets over Goodwood House and the Hill climbs with the roar of motorsport’s finest machines, the 2025 Festival of Speed will be a momentous occasion—a celebration of innovation, legacy, and the relentless pursuit of automotive excellence that has defined Gordon Murray’s unparalleled career.
