Goodwood Revival will celebrate 75 years of Lotus
Goodwood Revival is set to celebrate Lotus’ 75th anniversary this year. The three-day event, which is scheduled to take place from September 8 to 10, will feature up to 75 classic cars from Lotus' history.
The celebration will feature a special on-track event to pay homage to “The Chapman years" (1948-1982), where the Lotus 18 will take centre stage. The vehicle secured the first win for a Lotus-built car at the 1960 Monaco Grand Prix, with the legendary Sir Stirling Moss behind the wheel.
The event will see a host of notable drivers taking part in the festivities. The Duke of Richmond, owner of the Goodwood Estate, expressed his delight that the celebration is happening, saying it was the perfect occasion to mark both the 75-year anniversaries of Lotus and Goodwood.
The Lotus and Goodwood’s shared history dates back to when the Motor Circuit was first in operation. The Lotus 25 still holds the period lap record, which was set on Easter Monday in 1965 during the last ever Formula 1 race held at Goodwood, where Jim Clark tied for fastest lap with Jackie Stewart in a time of 1m 20.4.
The Chapman family, which founded Lotus, has made numerous appearances at Goodwood over the years and is as inextricably linked with the Circuit as the marque itself. Both Colin and Hazel Chapman raced at Goodwood, and Colin's father, Stan, managed the team, including for the significant victory by Innes Ireland in the 1960 Glover Trophy race.
Clive Chapman, son of Lotus founder Colin Chapman, is set to attend the Revival in September, continuing the tradition of the Chapman family's long association with the Circuit. Clive Chapman from Classic Team Lotus spoke ahead of the celebration, saying that Goodwood represented many landmarks in the story of Lotus.
Lotus Cars is currently experiencing a period of growth and development, as the company evolves into a global brand for the future. Clive Chapman said that as Lotus was celebrating its history in such splendid style, it was the perfect time to mark the momentous occasion.
The Goodwood Revival, which is held annually at the Goodwood Motor Circuit in West Sussex, is known for its vintage vehicles, period dress and nostalgic atmosphere. The event is an opportunity for fans of classic cars and motor racing to enjoy a unique experience that combines the thrill of racing with a sense of history and tradition.
The Lotus celebration will join the previously-announced Carroll Shelby tribute as well as the full race schedule for the Goodwood Revival. As the event approaches, fans and enthusiasts can expect an exciting lineup of classic cars, notable drivers, and on-track events.