The FIA joins the celebration of motor sport at Goodwood
For the first time, the FIA will have a presence as an exhibitor at one of the largest motor sport events on the planet – the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK.
The event focuses on the famous hill climb at Goodwood House in West Sussex, and has grown remarkably since its inception in 1993 to become an international celebration of both classic and cutting edge racing cars from every discipline.
Located at the heart of the event and close to the start of the hill climb (click here to view a map), the FIA will display key messages that look to the past, present and future of motor sport.
Taking centre stage will be an exhibition of the single-seater pyramid, which the FIA is working to simplify for drivers around the world. A mini-kart and a kart, as well as cars from Formula 4, Formula 3 and Formula 1 will be on show for the public to take a close look at, with the final part of the pyramid – Formula 2 – currently in the planning stage.
Having a logical progression for young racers aspiring to go from karting to F1 will make it easier for the outstanding talent to be uncovered, while providing the best possible preparation for the next step in their career – and ultimately for graduation to F1.
The FIA stand will also provide a glimpse into the future of F1, as the new specification 2017 Pirelli Tyres will be on display to the general public.
Visitors to the stand will also get the chance to test out the upcoming Gran Turismo Sport on a state-of-the-art simulator.
Following its release in November, this exciting new game will feature the “FIA Gran Turismo Online Championship”, and successful progression through the game will grant an “FIA Gran Turismo Digital License” from participating ASNs (national sports authorities/automobile clubs) which can be included as a step towards a real-world racing licence.
Another area of significant focus on the FIA stand is safety – there will be a section featuring one of the latest technologies in driver safety in F1 – the ‘Halo’ cockpit protection device.
The version on display is an early prototype used by Ferrari at February’s pre-season Formula One test in Barcelona. The intent is to prevent large objects flying in the direction of the driver (such as a wheel) from coming into contact with the driver’s head.
Finally, the FIA will provide a nod to the incredible history of the United Kingdom in motor sport, with a mural recognising some of the British FIA World Champions.
With a host of former and current racers in attendance, many of them driving iconic cars up the hill climb, it promises to be a weekend to remember for racing fans.