Top 5 memorable moments at Goodwood Festival of Speed

From the pinnacle of motorsport and unexpected A-Listers, to the classiest car collection around — here are our top five memorable Goodwood Festival of Speed moments.

Goodwood this year wasn't just fast; it was scorching. Speed-seekers may have been melting, but the excitement levels were boiling over: and Blackcircles went to see the highlights. Trying to pluck just a few 'best bits' from the glorious automotive chaos that unfolded was difficult, so buckle up and join us as we dive into our most unforgettable experiences from this year's Festival of Speed.

1. The airshow

Once properly refueled on delicious street food (a vital festival ritual, naturally), we settled in for a ground-level view. Above us, the air display teams unleashed a captivating show, incorporating twists and flips which painted the sky with a saturation of eye-catching colour. 

Officially known as the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the unit showcases the RAF’s most skilled and experienced pilots, who perfectly executed their renowned display over Goodwood House. It was a formidable demonstration of precision and teamwork, and a genuine must-see.

2. Celebrity sightings 

Goodwood's grounds were bustling with notable attendees, featuring a mix of stars ranging from the entertainment world to motorsport’s elite. Singer Dua Lipa, along with American actor and car enthusiast Patrick Dempsey, were among those spotted — how exciting!

The F1 world was well-represented by key figures such as Williams Racing Team Principal James Vowles, McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown, the legendary former F1 CEO Bernie Ecclestone, and the entire Haas F1 team. Notably, Dua Lipa has collaborated with Porsche to design a special Dua Lipa Rennstall 911 GT3 RS, which is slated for auction by RM Sotheby's, and onlookers watched as she went up the world famous hillclimb. 

3. Retro reimagined

It’s hard not to feel like a bobblehead trying to take everything in when strolling through the variety of cars on display. But one element of the show that really caught our eye was the customised classics. A brand-new feature, the New Classics Paddock, is positioned prominently in the Festival of Speed’s central area. This paddock brings together several of the world’s most stunning automotive restorations, reimaginings and recreations, like the Ian Callum Mk5 Mini Sportspack and the Kimera EVO37 — it brought the crowds to say the least!

4. Cartier Style et Luxe

As opposed to the ear-splitting roar and tyre smoke of the hillclimb, the Cartier Style et Luxe offered a decidedly more civilised affair. We sipped on our water bottles as we gazed upon the artistry and elegance of vintage automotive design in an area where the cars don't move; they pose. Among the eye-catching motors, one unexpected star was a magnificent celebration of the Ford Transit's 60th anniversary — proving that even workhorses can shine when polished to perfection.

5. 75 years of Formula 1 

This year, the Festival of Speed was squarely focused on celebrating 75 years of Formula 1. Over 80 F1 cars tackled Goodwood Hill, comprising half the day's action. The ongoing symphony of roaring engines certainly got our blood pumping.

Individual highlights included Haas owner Gene Haas driving one of his own F1 machines, and Aston Martin's Technical Director Adrian Newey — proving he's as skilled at driving as designing — piloting both a Ferrari 312/69 and his personal Lotus 49.

And as the dust settles and the engines fall silent, we're slowly but surely cooling down as we reflect on another motoring highlight of the year. What was your stand-out moment from this year's event?