LEGENDS TURN BACK TIME AT THE 2026 GOODWOOD REVIVAL
Goodwood Motor Circuit, 20 September 2026 – The sights and sounds of motor sport’s Golden Era returned to the Goodwood Revival this weekend, infused with a dash of Italian glamour. More than 150,000 spectators gathered alongside Rolex, Official Timepiece of the event and Title Sponsor of the Rolex Drivers’ Club since 2004, to celebrate the innovation and craftsmanship that have shaped generations. From Friday 18 to Sunday 20 September, drivers, mechanics and enthusiasts stepped back into Goodwood Motor Circuit’s heyday, as historic machines roared into life against the backdrop of “La Dolce Vita”, evoking the spirit of the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s.
The historic track staged 15 races across the weekend, featuring two-and four-wheeled machines, alongside a rare display of three Ford GT40s. The parade marked the 60th anniversary of the marque’s historic 1-2-3 finish at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1966. Rolex Testimonee Tom Kristensen, the record nine-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, took to the track in a 1966 Ford GT MkII to honour the famed endurance race with which his name is inextricably linked. Kristensen emphasizes the significance of the occasion:
Kristensen also showcased his speed and skill competing in the Stirling Moss Memorial Trophy and Sussex Trophy, piloting a 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB and 1955 Lister-Jaguar ‘Flat Iron’ respectively.
Guided by the Duke of Richmond’s vision, the grounds of the circuit became a celebration of Italian design, culture and history, with the Rolex Drivers’ Club as its centrepiece, styled to mirror ancient Rome. Crowds arrived in period attire, embracing the spirit of the era. Lemon trees, traditional Italian cuisine and hand-crafted details at every corner created an evocative atmosphere. On the track, more than 300 Vespas took to the tarmac for the marque’s 80th anniversary. In the Revive and Thrive community, the Best Dressed competition celebrated the glamour of the post-war era – victory rolls and tailored suits from the 1940s, full-skirted dresses and leather jackets from the 1950s, and the clean lines of 1960s fashion.
Rolex Testimonee Sir Jackie Stewart is a familiar and cherished guest at the Revival, and he returned to the track where his legendary career began. It was at Goodwood Motor Circuit in 1964 that the Scottish driver first tested for Ken Tyrrell. The venue, and this event in particular, remains a place of profound significance for him. Reflecting on his bond with Goodwood, Sir Jackie says:
On Sunday evening, the three-day event concluded with the much-loved RAC TT Celebration which welcomed spectators onto the track as the winning drivers received their laurel wreaths. A marching band made its way down the pit lane, and at the Driver of the Meeting presentation Rolex awarded Joe Colasacco an engraved Perpetual 1908 – an accolade that honours his exceptional performance and commitment to the racing spirit. As dancing commenced and the evening light faded beneath the Rolex clock tower, the final act of the weekend brought the 2026 Goodwood Revival to a close.
ROLEX AND MOTOR SPORT
Rolex celebrates human achievement, recognizing the journey marked by milestones and emotions that culminates in defining moments – determined by a path followed, not just a trophy. In motor sport this association started in the 1930s when Sir Malcolm Campbell set World Land Speed Records on Daytona Beach with a Rolex Oyster on his wrist. Since then, Rolex’s support has grown, extending to the sport’s most esteemed figures, revered endurance championships and leading events. This affiliation encompasses the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), the IMSA WeatherTech Sportscar Championship and the contests that come together to form the Triple Crown of Endurance Racing – the Rolex 24 At DAYTONA, the Twelve Hours of Sebring and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. For almost three decades, Rolex has also supported classic automotive events steeped in elegance, beauty and tradition, including the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance® and the Goodwood Revival. Rolex welcomed motor sport icon Sir Jackie Stewart into its family of Testimonees in 1968 and he has since been joined by fellow legends: Tom Kristensen, the record nine-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and Mark Webber, the 2015 FIA World Endurance Champion and multiple Grand Prix™ winner. The Swiss watchmaker also supports the next generation of talent, including Jamie Chadwick, who continues to break down barriers across motor sport, and Nyck de Vries, a leading figure in the WEC who won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2026.