The Royal Automobile Club once again placed the spotlight firmly on the custodians, innovators and storytellers of Britain’s motoring past, hosting its 2025 Historic Awards at the magnificent Pall Mall clubhouse. The evening, presided over by Formula 1 presenter Lee McKenzie, unfolded in the glittering Mountbatten Room—its tables adorned with prestigious trophies such as the British Grand Prix Trophy, the Tourist Trophy and the Torrens Trophy, all shimmering reminders of the Club’s long-running dedication to motoring excellence.
What set this year apart was the extraordinary calibre of entries. Independent judging panels reported some of the strongest submissions yet, with debates stretching long into the night as they worked to refine shortlists and ultimately identify the winners across each category. From celebrated industry icons to the often-unseen contributors preserving Britain’s motoring heritage, the 2025 cohort represented a broad, vibrant cross-section of the UK’s historic automotive world.
Sammy Miller MBE Honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award
The Lifetime Achievement Award—uniquely selected by the Club itself rather than its judging panels—went to a figure whose impact on motorcycling is nothing short of exceptional. Sammy Miller MBE, now aged 92, has shaped global motorcycle sport for more than eight decades.
His competition record alone is astonishing: 1,482 victories in Trials events, 11 consecutive British Trials Championships, five Scottish Six Day Trial titles, an Irish Motocross Championship, and numerous road racing wins. Yet what cements his legacy is the remarkable Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum in New Milton, Hampshire. Home to 500 rare and exotic machines, it has become a pilgrimage site for enthusiasts worldwide.
Despite his age, Miller remains a hands-on restorer, an active rider and a fixture at events—proof that his passion for engineering and heritage has never dimmed.
Outstanding Journalism: Dan Cogger’s Untold Jaguar Story
The Outstanding Journalism category saw no fewer than 40 submissions, with Autocar Editor-in-Chief Steve Cropley noting the exceptional depth of research and quality of writing on display. The winning article, “Lucky Number 13” by Dan Cogger and published in The Automobile, unearthed the previously untold history of a little-known Jaguar C-type.
Long existing outside the spotlight, the car not only carried a compelling narrative but went on to become a class winner at Pebble Beach this year. Cogger’s work demonstrated the power of meticulous storytelling in bringing forgotten chapters of motoring history back to life.
Young Achiever: Samantha Ruff
Supported by StarterMotor, the Young Achiever award continues to recognise emerging talent under the age of 30—individuals already shaping the future of historic motoring. This year’s winner, Samantha Ruff, is a trimmer with Harry Fraser Vehicle Upholstery and a rising creative force in her field.
Her combination of craft excellence, organisational proficiency and dedication impressed the judging panel, chaired by event organiser and competitor Vanessa Marçais. Adding a charming twist to the story, Samantha follows in the footsteps of her twin sister Cat, who took the award in 2024—proof that historic motoring passion often runs in families.
Personal Endeavour: The Late Julian Grimwade
The Personal Endeavour category, supported by MOTUL, paid tribute to the late Julian Grimwade—an influential presence within the Vintage Sports Car Club and the Bentley Drivers’ Club. Lead judge Sarah Bennett-Baggs and her panel selected him unanimously.
Grimwade was deeply committed to preserving pre-war motoring heritage, investing decades into events, education and club activities. His contribution to the historic sector was profound, and his passing earlier this year marked the loss of a much-loved champion of authenticity and community.
Innovation Award: Equipe Super Sprint
In a category known for eclectic nominations, the 2025 Innovation Award (supported by SUSTAIN and the Federation Skills Trust) went to a fresh format that turns conventional race meetings inside out. The Equipe Super Sprint offers drivers who have never before been in podium contention the chance to compete for top honours.
Lead Judge Lizzie Pope described the format as inventive, inclusive and intelligently designed—exactly the kind of thinking needed to bring new energy into historic motorsport.
Competitive Event: The International McRae Rally Festival
Knockhill’s International McRae Rally Festival earned top honours in the Competitive Event category, supported by Piper-Heidsieck. Led by commentator Ian Titchmarsh, the judging panel praised the event as a lively tribute to Colin McRae, the wider McRae family and Scottish motorsport at large.
With its combination of star drivers, iconic machines and a festival atmosphere, the event captured the spirit and spectacle that define world-class rallying heritage.
Motoring Spectacle: Salon Privé’s 20th Edition
Salon Privé marked its landmark 20th year with a dazzling celebration of automotive culture, earning it the Motoring Spectacle award (supported by RM Sotheby’s). Judges led by Classic & Sports Car Editor-in-Chief Alastair Clements highlighted the show’s global pull—attracting collectors, restorers, manufacturers and enthusiasts from every corner of the world.
A standout addition was the Automotive Gallery, a dramatic architectural achievement constructed from 1,206 panes of glass and spanning 4,460 m², which elevated the visual experience for visitors.
Museums & Collections: The British Motor Museum
After a high-spirited road trip to assess all finalists, the Museums & Collections judging group—overseen by Brooklands Museum Vice President Allan Winn—selected the British Motor Museum as their winner.
Judges praised its commitment to education, youth engagement and community involvement, emphasising that the museum had meaningfully expanded its mission during the past year.
Restoration: A Glorious 1924 Hispano-Suiza Reborn
The Restoration category once again showcased exceptional craftsmanship. Journalist and author Simon Taylor led the judges to Bicester Motion, where they examined each finalist in detail. The winner: a majestic 1924 Hispano-Suiza H6C Boulogne, restored by Jonathan Wood Ltd for owner Simon Kidston.
With its vast 8-litre engine, elegant sporting bodywork and reputation as one of the fastest cars of its era, the Hispano-Suiza was brought back to life through a restoration the panel described as among the finest they had ever encountered.
Celebrating Heritage, Community and Craftsmanship
Duncan Wiltshire, Chairman of the Royal Automobile Club, summarised the evening by honouring the remarkable diversity and dedication of the winners.
He emphasised not only the Club’s long-standing tradition of recognising excellence, but also its forward-looking approach as it continues to support a sustainable, resilient historic motoring future. He also acknowledged the judges for their dedication in evaluating what was, by all accounts, one of the most competitive fields in the Awards’ history.
A Legacy of Recognition
Since their inception in 2019, the Historic Awards have celebrated more than 170 finalists—individuals, clubs, events and organisations that uphold Britain’s unique motoring heritage. Now rooted firmly within the Club’s 128-year tradition of commemorating achievement, the Awards continue to shine a light on those who preserve, innovate and inspire.
For more information, visit royalautomobileclubhistoricawards.co.uk.
