From GT3s to Cafés Porsche Had More Than Speed in Mind

At the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed, Porsche returned not just as a performance icon but as a curator of craftsmanship, community, and heritage.

Over the four-day celebration of car culture, the brand’s presence showcased Porsche’s evolving vision of luxury in both form and experience.

At the centre of attention on the hillclimb was the newest generation of the 911 GT3, available in both its track-leaning configuration and the more understated Touring Package, which now includes optional rear seats; a first for this version.

Also on display was the 911 GT3 RS with the Manthey Kit, a factory-approved upgrade that enhances aerodynamics and handling, further bridging the gap between street-legal cars and track machines.

But performance was only part of the narrative.

Porsche’s House of Porsche installation, set beside Molecomb Corner, served as the brand’s central hub at Goodwood.

Beyond displaying current models and Porsche Classic offerings, it featured a showcase of Porsche Design Timepieces, available for personalisation to match specific car design elements.

The pavilion also hosted merchandise collections and a café, designed as a space to pause and take in the action on the Hill via a massive viewing screen.

For families, Porsche included a dedicated children’s area with free activities; a subtle but meaningful nod to the brand’s intergenerational appeal.

Nearby, the Porsche Café Le Mans provided pre-booked dining options throughout the weekend, situated west of the track, just beyond the footbridge.

One of the key visual highlights at Goodwood this year was the one-off 963 RSP, a special version of the endurance-winning Porsche 963.

Built by Porsche AG in collaboration with Porsche Penske Motorsport and Porsche Cars North America, the car features Sonderwunsch (special request) modifications developed by teams in both Zuffenhausen and Porsche Classic in Atlanta.

Inspired by the spirit of the ‘Count Rossi’ 917, the 963 RSP blends heritage and future in its unique bodywork and interior.

Another standout was the 911 Spirit 70 Edition, a limited model based on the Carrera GTS Cabriolet, created by Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur. Its design references the aesthetics of the 1970s and early 1980s, a clear celebration of brand heritage through design.

Racing talent was also front and centre. The Iron Dames, Porsche’s all-female GT3 R team, appeared fresh from their return to the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Driver Sarah Bovy represented the team in the Timed Shootout, alongside Porsche Carrera Cup France Junior Karen Gaillard.

Their participation continues a remarkable streak: seven consecutive appearances at Le Mans, the only all-female team to do so among 62 entries.

Joining them on the Hill was the 911 GT3 Cup Car, driven by Porsche Carrera Cup GB Junior James Wallis.

On the electric front, Porsche Formula E development driver Gabriela Jílková piloted a camouflaged prototype of the upcoming Cayenne Electric, drawing considerable interest from the crowd.

Finally, the Porsche Club GB, the second-largest Porsche Club in the world, was given a special tribute.

Up to 250 members showcased their vehicles throughout the weekend, parked adjacent to the House of Porsche.

The club's presence at Goodwood reaffirmed that Porsche’s cultural impact is as much about community as it is about engineering.