Goodwood Revival takes Historic Leap, Pioneering the Future of Racing with Sustainable Fuel
In a ground breaking move that sets a new benchmark for sustainability in historic motorsport, Goodwood Revival announced that the 2024 event will exclusively utilise sustainable fuel for all races. This landmark decision marks a significant step towards a greener future for classic car racing. This ensures the continued enjoyment of these iconic vehicles while upholding environmental responsibility. We for one think this is excellent news, and hopefully all other motorsport events will follow suit.
The Revival’s commitment to sustainable fuel aligns seamlessly with its overarching “Revive & Thrive” ethos. This emphasises the preservation and appreciation of motoring heritage while embracing progressive technologies for a sustainable future. The use of sustainable fuel not only reduces the environmental impact of classic car racing, but also demonstrates the viability of these fuels in powering high-performance vehicles.
In line with the FIA’s current sustainable fuel regulations, competitors will be required to use fuel with a minimum of 70% advanced sustainable components. This drop-in fuel is compatible with existing cars, ensuring no compromise on performance. Notably, the 2023 Revival witnessed the first sustainably-fueled winner, with the 1925 Bentley Speed Model clinching victory in the Rudge-Whitworth Cup.
The 2023 Revival also hosted a ground breaking race exclusively for pre-1966 Porsche 911s, powered by sustainable fuel, featuring a stellar grid of drivers, including Formula One World Champions Jenson Button and Mark Webber. The event also featured a panel discussion on alternative fuels with renowned figures like preparer Richard Tuthill, sustainable fuel developer Anders Hildebrand, and driver Emanuele Pirro.
Goodwood’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the Revival. The 81st Members’ Meeting (Saturday 13 & Sunday 14 April 2024) is mandating sustainable fuel for the Ken Miles Cup and Gordon Spice Trophy races. Additionally, Electric Avenue will return to the 2024 Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard (Thursday 11 – Sunday 14 July), showcasing a diverse range of alternative fuels alongside electric motoring.
The transition to sustainable fuel has garnered support from prominent motorsport figures like Sebastian Vettel, who drove the ex-Nigel Mansell 1992 Williams FW14B and ex-Ayrton Senna 1993 McLaren MP4/8 on sustainable fuel at the 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed. Vettel applauded Goodwood’s leadership in promoting sustainable fuels and its potential to secure the future of motorsport.
Karun Chandhok, a former Formula One and Formula E driver, echoed Vettel’s sentiments, emphasising the importance of demonstrating the compatibility of older high-performance cars with new fuels. He commended Goodwood’s innovative approach to ensuring the sustainable enjoyment of these iconic vehicles.
2009 Formula One World Champion Jenson Button, who participated in the Fordwater Trophy at the 2023 Goodwood Revival, hailed the event as a testament to the future of historic racing. He remarked on the potential of sustainable fuels to safeguard the enjoyment of combustion engine cars for years to come.
Rowan Atkinson, a regular competitor and avid Goodwood supporter, shared his positive experience with synthetic fuel in his racing Jaguar at the 2023 Goodwood Revival. He was impressed by its superior performance compared to traditional pump petrol.
The Duke of Richmond, founder of the Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival, expressed his pride in Goodwood’s pioneering role in mandating sustainable fuel at the event. He acknowledged the support of participating owners, drivers, and preparers, recognising their contribution to this significant shift towards a sustainable future for historic motorsport.
Goodwood’s decision to embrace sustainable fuel across all races at the 2024 Revival signals a bold new era for historic motorsport, demonstrating the compatibility of classic car racing with environmental responsibility. This groundbreaking initiative sets a precedent for other events, paving the way for a greener future for the industry.
