"Some events warm you up for the season. Race Retro throws you straight into it".
Packed halls, a 120-strong rally entry list, and an interview stage that barely had time to breathe, the UK’s historic motorsport season opener once again proved why it remains such an important date on the calendar. From rally royalty to modern-day champions, from sideways Group A icons to twin-engined autograss madness, it had everything. And then some.
Rally Royalty Takes Centre Stage
Sunday saw Welsh rally legend Gwyndaf Evans behind the wheel of the Stilo-liveried Group A Ford Sierra Cosworth, the very car piloted by Max McRae the day before. Watching the Sierra being pushed properly on the live rally stage felt like a time warp back to the golden era of turbocharged brutality.
Current WRC driver Jon Armstrong was also in attendance, threading an Audi Quattro through the stage with that unmistakable five-cylinder soundtrack echoing across the grounds.
And just in case things weren’t wild enough, rallycross driver Liam Doran brought his twin Hayabusa-engined Mini autograss machine. Yes, twin-engined. Yes, it sounded as aggressive as you’re imagining.
It was the perfect reminder that rallying’s past and present still sit comfortably side by side.
When the Weather Turned
Saturday afternoon’s rally stage took a dramatic twist when sudden rainfall swept across the circuit. Grip levels plummeted, braking zones stretched, and even the most experienced drivers found themselves fighting for control.
Then came the moment nobody wants to see.
Alex Brundle, Hollie McRae and Chris Smiley - 📷Ben Feetham
The Anglia rally car of Ceri Morgan caught fire during the afternoon session. Thanks to the rapid response of marshals and robust safety procedures, both driver and co-driver exited the car quickly and appeared unscathed. It was a stark reminder of the risks involved, but also of how far safety standards have evolved.
The professionalism shown trackside was nothing short of outstanding.
Plenty of action to be seen at the rally stage - 📷Jamie Nash
Voices of Experience
The interview stage was equally stacked.
Alex Brundle outlined ambitious historic racing plans for the year ahead, confirming that Brundle Motorsport will feature at every major classic festival in the UK, with additional travel on the agenda. The appetite for historic competition is clearly stronger than ever.
Hollie McRae offered a deeply personal reflection, reminiscing about her father and explaining her decision to pursue a career in media. Remaining in the sport her father loved, but in a safer capacity, is both a tribute and a testament to the evolving roles within motorsport. She also shared genuine excitement for upcoming WRC regulation changes, believing they will positively influence manufacturer involvement and increase transparency around technical information shared by drivers.
Also appearing on stage were Chris Smiley and 2025 BTCC champion Tom Ingram, adding modern touring car pedigree to an already star-studded weekend.
The Hall That Had It All
While one hall showcased an extraordinary collection of machinery from leading auction houses, and others were filled with brands, race organisers and specialists from every corner of the sport, it was the final hall that truly stopped you in your tracks.
Race Retro clearly saved the best until last.
Both the rally stage and exhibition halls were packed full of poster cars - 📷Jack Lane
Representatives of grassroots and club racing welcomed visitors at the entrance, setting the tone immediately. Autograss machines sat proudly beside club-level builds, each with a story of dedication behind it.
Then came the visual knockout.
A stunning collection of Martini-liveried Lancia rally cars stood proudly in formation, with classic Formula One icons positioned quietly behind them, almost as if waiting to be rediscovered. It was a hall that didn’t just display history - it celebrated it.
A Start to the Season That Matters
Race Retro once again proved why it’s more than just a show. It is a meeting point for generations of motorsport. It connects rally fans with circuit racers, historic enthusiasts with modern champions, grassroots competitors with global professionals.
Packed halls. A 120-car rally entry. Big names on stage. Drama on track.
It’s the kind of season opener that sets the tone for everything that follows.
And Pitlane News already has next year circled on the calendar..
The halls were full as far as the eye could see - from niche products to renowned racing clubs - 📷Ben Feetham
