The coronavirus has cancelled countless events including the Detroit, New York and Geneva motor shows. Now, it has claimed the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
While the event was originally postponed, organizers determined that simply delaying the Festival of Speed to late summer or early fall wouldn’t be feasible due to social distancing measures.
As they explained, “Goodwood has always prided itself on creating the very best events and experiences available and, with the measures that are required to fight the virus remaining in place, it would not be possible to hold the Festival or Revival without severely compromising the experience for all involved.”
Organizers went on to say they’re sad they had to cancel this year’s Festival of Speed and Revival, and noted their “absence places not only future events but even the long-term future of the estate under considerable strain.” That doesn’t sound good and organizers said they’re “heavily” reliant on these events to fund their operations.
Given their “severely compromised” finances, the Goodwood Supporters’ Association is being resurrected in an effort to save the events for future generations. In return for a one-time contribution, people can become lifetime “Goodwood Supporters” and receive a GSA lapel pin or have their name permanently engraved on a commemorative plaque running around the perimeter of the Motor Circuit.
Benefits vary by tier and pricing ranges from £100 ($126) to £500 ($629). Fans can also make a simple donation of between £10 ($13) and £50 ($63) without joining the GSA.
People who already bought tickets to this year’s events can request a refund or have them rollover to 2021.