03 Dec 2025

RACE RETRO PAYS TRIBUTE TO GT40’S 1966 24HR LE MANS SUCCESS

Race Retro
RACE RETRO PAYS TRIBUTE TO GT40’S 1966 24HR LE MANS SUCCESS

Race Retro, Europe’s premier historic motorsport show, will pay tribute to one of the most epic podiums in Le Mans history, when it returns to Warwickshire’s Stoneleigh Park from 20-22 February 2026. 

 

Collaborating with the GT40 Enthusiasts Club, 2026 marks 60 years since the Ford GT40 claimed all three tiers of the podium in the 1966 24 Hrs of Le Mans race. 

 

The first victory for an American manufacturer at the race and breaking Ferrari’s winning streak, the #2 car was driven by Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon. It won after crossing the finish line alongside two other Ford GT40s in a historic three-car tandem finish. 

 

Although the three Fords finished together in a photo finish, the #2 car was declared the winner because it had covered more distance according to race rules.  

 

The second-place car was driven by British racing driver Ken Miles and New Zealander Denny Hulme, whilst third place went to Ronnie Bucknum and Dick Hutcherson. 

 

With the original cars now in private ownership around the world, the GT40 Enthusiasts Club has gathered three stunning replicas for the tribute display. 

 

Displaying the GT40 MKll, born from the history of two conglomerates of the motor industry and the refusal by Enzo Ferrari to sell to Ford Motor Company, the three replicas on display belong to club members. 

 

Even as replicas, these cars are exceptionally rare and seldom seen together. Car #2, created by Superformance, was first registered in 2017 and is striking in its stance. Car #1, which came second at Le Mans, was registered in 2012 and is by the American company RCR. This stunning car presented in pale blue is regularly used on track days by the owner. Third-place Car #5, a GTD, was registered in 1982 and is one of the only known MKll bodied cars still in existence. 

Black Ford GT40 Mark II replica #2 1966 Le Mans winner McLaren Amon Light blue Ford GT40 Mark II replica #1 1966 Le Mans 2nd place Ken Miles Denny Hulme Gold Pink Ford GT40 Mark II replica #5 1966 Le Mans 3rd place Bucknum Hutcherson

 

The GT40 Le Mans Tribute is the first display to be announced from the 2026 Hall of Fame. The themed feature hall was added last year and delivered epic cars and content and 2026 promises more of the same. 

 

Beside the feature displays, the Hall of Fame also hosts the Talk Motorsport Stage where visitors can enjoy interviews and panel discussions from celebrity guests and industry experts throughout the weekend. 

 

As well as iconic historic race cars, legendary rally vehicles, interactive displays, and live outdoor motorsport action (Saturday and Sunday only), Race Retro also showcases specialist motorsport exhibitors, traders, and rare motoring memorabilia. 

 

The vibrant atmosphere brings together enthusiasts, racing drivers, and industry legends for a truly unforgettable experience.

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