The best of Thursday at the 2024 Festival of Speed

Thursday gave us our first look at what is on display this year, and the range of machinery to see is breathtaking. From some of the earliest models made to the very latest designs, our ‘Horseless to Hybrid’ theme never felt far from the mind.

Starting with the MG celebrations, commemorating 100 years of motorsport with the reveal of the Central Feature, the Duke of Richmond kicking-off proceedings by driving his grandfather’s Type C up the Hill for the first run of the day, and then the MG Celebration moment, which saw the estate lit up with fireworks and red smoke.

The Supercars of Batch 6 and the very latest models making their debuts as part of First Glance presented by heycar also took to the Hill for the first time, impressing crowds eager to get a first look at the latest models from manufactures both renowned and up and coming. We were also treated to a plethora of bikes – from grand prix motorcycles to off-road and dirt bikes and sidecars, each roaring up the Hill. Thursday also saw celebrations of Niki Lauda, 130 years of Mercedes-Benz, and Joest Racing.

There is always such a variety on show; it’s incredible to think of the innovation which has taken place. Glance one way, and you can look upon the forgotten Auto Union car finally realised after 90 years, or perhaps spend a while in the Cartier Style et Luxe Lawn with the rarest and most beautiful models in existence. Then turn to the track, and see some the latest Formula 1 cars, the pinnacle of advancement in motoring technology. All in a day at the Festival of Speed.

The 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed is underway, and you can watch every moment of the action on our live stream right here on GRR!

Photography courtesy of Toby Whales, Peter Summers, Nick Dungan, Tom Shaxson, and Jordan Butters