Mazda UK and Mission Motorsport once again join forces to honor the sacrifices of British servicemen and women in the annual Race of Remembrance. This year, the poignant event will celebrate a decade of commemorative motorsport at the Anglesey Circuit in North Wales, where the Race of Remembrance has become a symbol of respect, resilience, and reflection. Among the highlights of the event is the debut of Mazda’s specially designed MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV poppy ‘art car,’ which will take the lead as the official course car for the two-day race.
The Race of Remembrance, organized by Mission Motorsport, is unique in its format and mission. This year, 57 teams will compete in a 12-hour endurance race spread over the weekend of November 9-10. Significantly, the event observes a solemn pause at 11:00 am on Sunday, as all race activity ceases to allow more than a thousand attendees, including racers, officials, and spectators, to observe a Service of Remembrance, honoring those who have served.
Mazda UK’s association with Mission Motorsport dates back to the organization’s inception in 2012, with the automaker supporting the Race of Remembrance since its first running. In 2015, Mazda contributed an MX-5 adorned with a custom poppy livery, paying tribute to the nation’s service personnel. This year, the partnership has come full circle, as Mazda and Mission Motorsport unveil a new poppy-inspired ‘art car’ in the form of the Mazda MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV—a visually striking reminder of remembrance and renewal.
Crafted by Mission Motorsport’s talented livery team, the MX-30 poppy ‘art car’ has been designed with input from injured servicemen and women. As CEO of Mission Motorsport, James Cameron, explained, “We adore this project. Back in 2015, we sought to combine art therapy with a motorsport build, and were astonished by the end result. This year, our second Mazda art car reflects remembrance but also new life, energy, and hope.” With its eye-catching design, the course car will stand out on the track and embody the spirit of resilience that drives Mission Motorsport’s initiatives for rehabilitation, training, and community support.
Mazda’s course car for the Race of Remembrance is more than just a tribute. The MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV is a unique vehicle, blending the efficiency of a series plug-in hybrid with Mazda’s innovative rotary engine technology. Featuring a 17.8kWh battery with a pure electric range of 53 miles, the MX-30 also boasts an 830cc single-rotor petrol engine that acts as a generator, providing an extended range without compromising the electric driving experience. Jeremy Thomson, Managing Director of Mazda Motors UK, expressed his pride in the car’s symbolic role, stating, “The poignant and stunning livery of this Mission Motorsport poppy car is a sobering reminder of the sacrifices and bravery of our service personnel and their families. I’m delighted that Mazda can play a part in assisting Mission Motorsport to honor this with the Race of Remembrance.”
The Mazda MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV will continue to support the Armed Forces Community throughout the year, underscoring Mazda’s commitment to veterans and the goals of Mission Motorsport. As the official course car for the 10th Race of Remembrance, it will lead the pack, guiding racers on their journey while ensuring that the weekend’s significance is never lost amid the excitement of the track.
The Race of Remembrance is more than a race—it’s an occasion to reflect, pay homage, and support veterans through motorsport. Mazda UK’s involvement is a testament to the powerful, enduring relationship between automakers and organizations dedicated to veteran support. As the MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV circles the Anglesey Circuit, it symbolizes not only the thrill of competition but also the honor and gratitude that fuel this annual event. For those attending or participating, this weekend promises to be an unforgettable tribute to those who have served, and a celebration of a shared commitment to support, resilience, and remembrance.
