In a top announcement sure to electrify motorsport fans worldwide, Goodwood has confirmed that Lando Norris—Currently Formula 1 World Champion—and the legendary nine-time Grand Prix motorcycle racing World Champion Valentino Rossi will both grace the Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard this July. This unprecedented gathering promises to unite two giants of modern racing, bridging the exhilarating worlds of Formula 1 and MotoGP in spectacular fashion—just as only Goodwood’s Festival of Speed can.
Norris is eager to celebrate his current position as F1 World Champion with an enthusiastic crowd. And Norris—a lifelong admirer of Rossi—this occasion holds that extra special meaning. He has often spoken about his excitement for Goodwood, describing it as “always mega, a proper celebration of motorsport,” and says the chance to share the stage with a legend like Valentino Rossi makes the experience even more extraordinary.
Rossi’s much-anticipated return to Goodwood brings his signature charisma and global appeal to the heart of the festival. As a titan of the sport—boasting nine world titles, 115 Grand Prix victories, and a transformative legacy—Rossi remains a true icon, both on and off the racetrack. He has described Goodwood as “something really special, a true celebration of motorsport in every form.” Rossi is especially excited to share the hill with athletes like Norris and John McGuinness, calling it an “unforgettable experience” that showcases the unity and passion within motorsport. The prospect of Rossi and Norris—two champions from different eras—sharing the spotlight is a testament to the enduring spirit and evolving excitement of the sport.
Together, Norris and Rossi perfectly capture the essence of the Festival of Speed: a living tribute to legends, a showcase for jaw-dropping talent, and an arena where the great stories of motorsport come alive. Their joint appearance is set to be a highlight of the 2026 event—an extraordinary gathering where fans can see two icons from distinct disciplines, united by mutual admiration and respect, create history before their very eyes.
Fans can look forward to an electrifying Friday afternoon when Norris and Rossi arrive for the much-anticipated Goodwood Balcony Moment—an opportunity to cheer, connect, and hear from these two motorsport greats. As an added treat, Norris will return for a special Saturday Balcony Moment, celebrating his remarkable World Championship triumph.
Norris expressed his excitement for the event, emphasising the “awesome atmosphere” and noting that sharing the experience with a legend like Valentino Rossi “just makes it even cooler.”
Rossi echoed this sentiment, describing Goodwood as “something really special, a true celebration of motorsport in every form.” He remarked on the thrill of seeing so many passionate fans and the privilege of sharing the hill with world-class athletes like Norris and John McGuinness, calling it “an unforgettable experience.”
The Duke of Richmond CBE DL, founder of Goodwood Festival of Speed, said: “Norris and Rossi. Together at Goodwood. It is without doubt a moment that will go down in Festival of Speed history. We’re incredibly grateful to Monster Energy for uniting these two World Champions at Goodwood and look forward to celebrating together in style later this summer.”
- For more information on this and the event, you can visit the Goodwood website here: http://www.goodwood.co.uk/
