The Goodwood Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard is poised to rekindle many of motorsport’s most famous rivalries from down the years after announcing its theme for 2026: ‘The Rivals – Epic Racing Duels’.

Set to bring legendary battles back to life – be it on two or four wheels, a race track or rally course – the West Sussex venue is gearing up to celebrate the teams, drivers and riders that have shaped the history of motorsport.

Two particular rivalries will be form the crux of the celebrations on July 9-12, and they will be featured heavily both on the famous Goodwood Hill and across the legendary Estate.  

The story of James Hunt and Niki Lauda’s monumental battle for the 1976 Formula 1 World Championship has transcended motorsport, and the Festival of Speed will mark the 50th Anniversary of that sensational year.

Also sharing the limelight is the saga between Ford and Ferrari that culminated at the 1966 Le Mans 24 Hours. More information on exactly what shape these celebrations will take will be revealed in due course. 

The Duke of Richmond CBE DL said: “Over the years, Goodwood has seen some fierce competition, whether in the early days of the Circuit when the all-time greats were battling it out, or in more recent years on the hillclimb.”

“Even the IndyCar drivers who joined us at this year’s Revival brought their very own rivalry which played out in the Royal Automobile Club TT Celebration.  

“In 2026, the Festival of Speed will capture the drama and intensity of some of motorsport’s greatest contests as we celebrate ‘The Rivals – Epic Racing Duels’, bringing to life the immense determination and talent of the titans of racing history.”