Goodwood Expands to America: Launch of Road Racing Club in California
On July 9, 2026, Goodwood made an exciting announcement about its first venture into the United States: the formation of the Goodwood Road Racing Club of America (GRRC). This new club, set to launch in California in early 2027, represents a significant step in Goodwood's international expansion and dedication to fostering a vibrant car culture in the U.S.
The GRRC's announcement was made during the renowned Festival of Speed, a fitting backdrop that celebrated American motorsport culture and heritage. Starting in California, the club aims to introduce a tailored experience for automotive enthusiasts across the country. With this launch, Goodwood intends to share its nearly 30-year legacy of passion for motorsport, which has flourished in the UK with its dedicated following.
At the heart of the GRRC is community and accessibility. Members will gain exclusive access to an array of events and experiences that allow them to immerse themselves in the automotive world. The annual calendar will feature driving days, personal tours, track events, and social occasions, all centered around the shared love of cars. The first official event is scheduled to take place in 2028 at Willow Springs, a notable track that has become a staple for motorsport enthusiasts.
What distinguishes the GRRC from other automotive clubs is its commitment to celebrating the personal bond between individuals and their vehicles. The club embraces a diversity of preferences, welcoming members regardless of their vehicle marque or category, fundamentally fostering a genuine sense of belonging. A highlight of each annual season will be a flagship event inspired by American motorsport culture, embodying Goodwood's unique charm and style, allowing members to experience authenticity and joy in motion.
Goodwood's relationship with the United States spans back centuries, rooted in historical connections. The 3rd Duke of Richmond was an ardent supporter of American independence and was closely involved with figures like Thomas Paine. As the nation celebrates 250 years since the Declaration of Independence, Goodwood is thrilled to deepen its ties with American car culture, reflective of a long-standing affinity between the two.
Significant figures in motorsport, including Sir Jackie Stewart, Mario Andretti, and Richard Petty, will serve as founding patrons of the GRRC. Each of these iconic individuals embodies the spirit of motorsport and has a rich history intertwined with Goodwood's legacy, marking an exciting collaborative effort to bridge transatlantic racing traditions.
In the words of The Duke of Richmond, this launch is more than a milestone for Goodwood; it signals a transformative moment for car enthusiasts in America. The intention is clear: to create a sanctuary for automotive passion that provides unparalleled opportunities, enhanced by the community aspect that has long characterized Goodwood's offerings.
Mario Andretti expressed his excitement about the new venture, reinforcing that Goodwood's spirit resonates deeply with motorsport drivers and aficionados alike. With America’s fervor for automotive culture, he sees this club as a pivotal addition for all car lovers, uniting them under a shared banner.
More details on membership benefits, event schedules, and opportunities to register interest are forthcoming. However, for those eager to be a part of this groundbreaking initiative, registration is already open at grrcamerica.com.
As the Goodwood Road Racing Club of America gears up for its first event, it promises to be a game-changing addition to the landscape of American car enthusiasts, offering a fresh and invigorating take on what an automotive community can look like today.