Lightning strikes the Festival of Speed! Disney and Pixar’s Cars legendary racer Lightning McQueen at Goodwood Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard

• Seven-time Piston Cup winner to attend Goodwood Festival of Speed.
• Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard takes place Thursday 9 – Sunday 12.
• Thursday and limited Sunday tickets remain at com.

This July, celebrated seven‑time Piston Cup Champion Lightning McQueen will make an appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard. 

First bursting onto the professional racing scene as a hot shot rookie racer, Lightning McQueen quickly rose to prominence under the mentorship of the legendary, three-time Piston Cup Champion, Doc Hudson - known to many as the Fabulous Hudson Hornet. McQueen’s early career was defined by blistering pace and an uncompromising drive to win, establishing him as one of the most respected figures in the Piston Cup. Today, he is admired not only for his multiple victories, but also for his sportsmanship, leadership and lasting impact on the sport.

In 2011, McQueen - then a four‑time Piston Cup Champion - entered the inaugural World Grand Prix alongside an elite international field including Francesco Bernoulli, Jeff Gorvette, Lewis Hamilton (now Sir), Max Schnell, Miguel Camino, Raoul ÇaRoule, Carla Veloso, Nigel Gearsley, Rip Clutchgoneski and Shu Todoroki. The season was defined by his rivalry with Bernoulli and, after finishing second in Tokyo, McQueen struck back in Italy, taking victory and setting up a dramatic title decider in London. However, following a series of incidents across the championship, the London Grand Prix was suspended, leaving McQueen and Bernoulli tied on points.

Returning home after the World Grand Prix, McQueen went on to secure a further three Piston Cup titles, placing him level with Strip Weathers, aka ‘The King’ for the most championship wins.

In 2017, McQueen returned to the spotlight for a competitive outing at the Florida 500. In a defining moment, he handed his iconic No. 95 to Rust‑eze racing technician and aspiring racer Cruz Ramirez, who went on to claim her first victory under his guidance. Following in the footsteps of Doc Hudson, McQueen moved into mentorship role for Ramirez, yet has remained active in the racing world.

McQueen’s career is a testament to extraordinary talent, resilience and evolution - a journey from ambitious rookie to one of the most decorated champions in racing history. Guided by Doc Hudson’s wisdom, he honed raw speed into a legacy that not only includes seven Piston Cup titles and international acclaim, but an unwavering commitment to the next generation of racers.

Lightning McQueen said: “I couldn’t be more fired up to head to the Goodwood Festival of Speed this July. It’s one of the most legendary celebrations of racing anywhere in the world, and I’m honoured to be part of it. I can’t wait to meet the fans, feel the energy and soak up the atmosphere. See you at Goodwood! Ka-chow!”

The Duke of Richmond, CBE DL, founder of the Festival of Speed, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to announce that Lightning McQueen will attend this year’s Festival of Speed, bringing an extra spark of excitement to the event. The team here at Goodwood has been working hard behind the scenes for a number of years to make this happen, and we’re delighted that Lightning’s schedule allows for him to finally join us. It’s set to be a truly special moment for motorsport fans of all ages.”

-ENDS-