Goodwood Revival to celebrate 80th anniversary of the Vespa

Each year, the Goodwood Revival begins with a spectacular track opening parade, showcasing some of the most iconic vehicles in motoring history. These distinguished makes and models converge on the historic Motor Circuit, marking the official start of the event in grand style.

In 2025, the Revival brought together the largest and most varied group of Volkswagen Type 2 Split Screens, including fire engines, ambulances, transporters, and even ice cream vans. This year, the spotlight turns to the Vespa, ready to take centre stage in a vibrant celebration of Italian design and culture.

Goodwood Revival will embrace La Dolce Vita at The Turning Circle by the Gate 2 entrance, brought to life with style and flair.

Eighty years ago, a scooter with a distinctive buzz captured imaginations worldwide. When the first MP6 prototype’s 98cc engine was started up in 1946, Italian industrialist Enrico Piaggio remarked that it sounded like a wasp – ‘Vespa’ in Italian. The scooter was subsequently named by its creator, Corradino d’Ascanio, and the Vespa brand was born.

Vespa emerged as a symbol of possibility, creativity and hope in a nation striving to rebuild after the devastation of the Second World War. Corradino d’Ascanio blended ingenuity with mechanical engineering to create a simple yet innovative vehicle that has stood the test of time.

Over the decades, Vespa has evolved beyond transportation into a lifestyle brand. In the early 1950s, the slogan “Vespizzatevi!”– translated as “Vespa ourselves” – was used in global marketing campaigns, to encourage both personal expression and environmentally conscious travel. By the mid-1960s, the Mod movement in the UK, inspired by Italian style and spirit, embraced Vespa, connecting young people through style, community and mobility, cementing Vespa’s place as both a cultural and practical icon.

In 2026, Vespa will mark eight decades of design, culture, and creativity. Goodwood Revival will celebrate this anniversary with a parade of over 300 pre-67 Vespas, Lambrettas, Ducati’s and many more in every colour and design, showcasing the marque’s legacy of style and innovation and its enduring influence.

Taking place across the weekend, the track opening parade joins a full schedule of fifteen races which are set to run exclusively on sustainable fuel.

Early bird tickets are on sale now at goodwood.com

If you wish to submit a vehicle for consideration to join the 2026 Track Opening Parade, please complete the Vehicle Information Form.