Jota’s Cadillac Makes Its UK Debut at Goodwood Members’ Meeting
World Endurance Championship (WEC) Hypercar machinery is set to make its debut at the Goodwood circuit next month when one of Jota’s Cadillacs will lap the track during the Members’ Meeting on 12-13 April. This event marks a historic moment, as it is believed to be the first time a current top-flight sportscar has taken to the Goodwood Motor Circuit since the 1960s. Jota’s V-Series.R LMDh will be driven by WEC racers Alex Lynn and Will Stevens, who are expected to complete several high-speed demonstration laps, thrilling the crowd with the car’s cutting-edge performance and modern engineering.
A Special Milestone for Jota Sport
The LMDh’s appearance at Goodwood is particularly significant as it coincides with the 25th anniversary of Jota Sport, which has evolved into a formidable force in motorsport. Originally founded by David Clark, Jota has transitioned from a privateer team to a factory-backed Cadillac squad for the 2023 WEC season. Clark, who has a deep personal connection to Goodwood, expressed his excitement about the event. "I have such affection for Goodwood and a strong personal history there, so it’s always a special joy for me when Jota does anything at Goodwood," he said. "This year is such a special one for the entire team at Jota Group, not just the race team but also our amazing people at Jota Composites and Jota Engineering." The debut of the Cadillac Hertz Team Jota V-Series.R LMDh at this iconic venue is an enormous honor and a highlight of Jota’s 25th anniversary celebration.
The Duke of Richmond’s Enthusiasm
The Duke of Richmond, the owner of Goodwood, shared the excitement surrounding the event. "We have a lot of fun at the Members’ Meeting, showcasing the breadth of motorsport," he commented. "I’m delighted that our guests will see the Cadillac Hertz Team JOTA V-Series.R LMDh in action – the first time a current car from the highest level of sportscar racing will have lapped the Motor Circuit since it closed in the sixties." The Duke’s enthusiasm underscores the importance of this event in the motorsport calendar, blending the rich history of Goodwood with the modern marvels of racing technology.
Ayrton Senna’s Legacy at Goodwood
Jota’s appearance at the Members’ Meeting is just one of several high-profile events planned for the weekend. Another standout feature will be Bruno Senna, the nephew of the legendary Formula 1 triple champion Ayrton Senna, driving his uncle’s 1985 Portuguese Grand Prix-winning Lotus. This drive commemorates the 40th anniversary of Ayrton Senna’s maiden Formula 1 victory, a moment that marked the beginning of his illustrious career and left an indelible mark on motorsport history. The collaboration between Jota and the Senna family highlights the enduring legacy of Ayrton and the reverence with which he is still held in the racing community.
A Range of Jota’s Historical Achievements
In addition to the Cadillac V-Series.R LMDh, the event will showcase a variety of cars that have played a crucial role in Jota’s history. The team’s success in the LMP2 division at the 24 Hours of Le Mans will be celebrated with the display of its class-winning vehicles from past years. These cars, which have graced the Circuit de la Sarthe, are a testament to Jota’s dedication and prowess in endurance racing. Furthermore, one of the Porsche 963 LMDhs that Jota fielded in the WEC last year will also be on display, offering a glimpse into the team’s recent achievements and its versatility across different racing platforms.
The Goodwood GT3 Shootout
Beyond the main demonstrations, the Members’ Meeting will feature a special GT3 shootout, showcasing cars homologated between 2006 and 2012. This event promises to be a thrilling spectacle, bringing together some of the most iconic and powerful GT3 machines from a golden era of motorsport. The shootout will not only entertain the spectators but also provide a platform for racing enthusiasts to compare and contrast these modern classics with the contemporary wonders of the WEC Hypercar category. The combination of historical and contemporary racing content at the Goodwood Members’ Meeting ensures a weekend filled with excitement and nostalgia, celebrating the rich tapestry of motorsport heritage.
