75th Anniversary of Goodwood Motor Circuit: A Look Back at its Wilderness Years

Goodwood has recently celebrated its 75th anniversary with a series of exciting events, such as the 80th Members’ Meeting, the Festival of Speed, and the Revival. As we look back on the history of the famed Motor Circuit, it’s worth remembering its wilderness years during the late 1960s onwards.

After gaining international recognition for top-level motor racing in its early years, Goodwood Motor Circuit experienced a period of decline. The introduction of more powerful 3.0-litre Grand Prix cars led to the closure of the Circuit in 1966. However, it was then used for extensive testing for the development of the legendary Cosworth DFV engine, as well as by leading Formula One teams and drivers.

In 1970, tragedy struck when Bruce McLaren, the founder of the McLaren racing team, lost his life during a test run at Goodwood. Despite these challenges, the Circuit continued to make history, with Nelson Picquet setting a record lap time in 1983 that remains unbroken to this day.

Throughout the wilderness years, the Motor Circuit also became a venue for new model launch events by mainstream car manufacturers, including the infamous Reliant Robin press launch in 1973. Its downtime saw a decline in the state of the Circuit, with signs of neglect and decay.

The rejuvenation of Goodwood Motor Circuit began with the maiden Goodwood Revival event in 1998, bringing back fond memories of its glorious past. This resurgence even inspired Peugeot to launch a special edition 309 GTi Goodwood hot hatch, paying homage to the Circuit’s legacy.

In addition to its motorsport history, the Motor Circuit became the unlikely home to the UK’s leading self-build kit car industry during this period. It served as a testing and advertising base for Dutton Cars and Jago Cars, as well as a manufacturing site for kit car makers like Alan Langridge and John Paul Randall.

Langridge introduced the Mini Moke-inspired Navajo within the landmark Super Shell Building, while Randall’s JPR Cars produced the Jaguar E-type inspired Wildcat, becoming a successful venture for a period of time.

The rich history of Goodwood Motor Circuit extends beyond motorsport, as the Super Shell Building also housed the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ manufacturing facility, establishing a long-lasting presence in the vicinity.

As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of Goodwood Motor Circuit, it is important to pay tribute to its wilderness years, which played a crucial role in shaping its legacy. From the glory days of international racing to the testing ground for innovative automobile designs, the Circuit’s history is a testament to its enduring significance in the world of motorsport and automotive innovation.