1966 Ford GT Mk II Legends Reunite at Goodwood

A reunion decades in the making

In 2026, three Ford GT Mk II icons will share the track once more. The cars that sealed Ford’s famous 1-2-3 at Le Mans in 1966 will reunite for the first time in a decade. Fittingly, the celebration marks the 60th anniversary of that milestone victory over Ferrari. Moreover, the trio will appear together at two of Britain’s most cherished motorsport gatherings: the Goodwood Festival of Speed and the Goodwood Revival.

Owned by the Miller Family Automobile Foundation and Rob Kauffman of RK Motors, the cars last ran as a group in 2016. Therefore, 2026 offers a rare live showcase for enthusiasts and newcomers alike. The sight, sound, and story remain magnetic. Furthermore, Goodwood’s stages will give the public a close, visceral encounter with machines that redefined endurance racing.

Today, that legacy still inspires teams and fans around the world. The reunion promises more than a static display. Instead, it will feature running demonstrations that bring history to life. Consequently, the celebrations should capture the drama and emotion that made 1966 unforgettable.

The cars that changed endurance racing

The winning chassis, P/1046, wore black and silver with race number 2. Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon drove it to victory after a contentious finish. Notably, the car began further back on the grid than its Ford teammates. As a result, it covered a greater official distance and took the win when the team staged a joint finish.

Next came chassis P/1015, the blue number 1 driven by Ken Miles and Denny Hulme. It led much of the race with relentless pace and precision. However, the orchestrated photo finish denied Miles the victory many expected. The call has fueled debate and admiration for decades. Still, the performance of Miles and Hulme remains a benchmark for grit and speed.

Completing the sweep, chassis P/1016 finished third. The gold number 5, driven by Ronnie Bucknum and Dick Hutcherson, delivered consistency and control throughout the race. Moreover, all three cars showcased the thunderous 7.0-liter V8 that became Ford’s signature in the GT40 Mk II. Together, they demonstrated a blend of power, durability, and teamwork that changed the sport’s balance of power.

How Ford ended Ferrari’s reign

By the mid-1960s, Ferrari dominated endurance racing. Then Henry Ford II set out to change the story. After a failed attempt to buy Ferrari, Ford launched the GT40 program with clear intent. The company invested heavily, partnered with Shelby American, and pursued speed without compromise. Consequently, the GT40 platform evolved rapidly.

At Le Mans in 1966, Ford brought multiple GT40 Mk IIs armed with 7.0-liter V8 engines. Ferrari’s V12 cars remained agile and proven. However, Ford’s strategy emphasized outright power and relentless development. The result was decisive. Ford achieved the first overall Le Mans win by an American manufacturer, taking the top three spots in formation.

The staged finish created controversy that endures, especially regarding Ken Miles. Yet the broader outcome was clear. Ford ended Ferrari’s streak and began its own. Furthermore, the GT40 would win Le Mans four years in a row, from 1966 through 1969. Therefore, the program stands as one of racing’s great turnarounds.

Where and when to witness the trio

The Goodwood Festival of Speed (July 9–12, 2026) will host the cars under the theme “The Rivals – Epic Racing Duels.” There, the GT Mk IIs will run up the Hill and evoke the iconic finish. Moreover, organizers plan a dynamic tribute to the tension and triumph of 1966. Fans can expect the rumble of big-block Fords and the spectacle of a living legend.

Meanwhile, the Goodwood Revival (September 18–20, 2026) will bring the trio to the historic Motor Circuit. The setting suits the cars’ era and spirit. Therefore, the laps should feel like pages turning back in time. Furthermore, the weekend will spotlight the partnerships that shaped the GT40 story.

Members of the Shelby family will take part in the festivities. In addition, Aaron Shelby will present the Carroll Shelby Spirit Award to the Duke of Richmond. The gesture honors the lasting bond between Ford, Shelby, and Goodwood. For more details and tickets, visit Goodwood.com.

Why this moment resonates today

Sixty years on, the 1966 sweep still resonates because it captured everything compelling about racing. Rivalry pushed innovation. Drivers risked everything for a chance at glory. Teams faced setbacks and found answers. Moreover, the cars themselves became cultural touchstones. The GT40’s stance, sound, and victories still stir the soul.

However, the story also carries nuance. The orchestrated finish remains a sore point for those who admire Ken Miles. Yet the controversy underscores the human drama that defines great sport. As a result, the reunion offers a chance to honor all who contributed: engineers, drivers, crew members, and leaders who believed in a bold plan.

Finally, Goodwood’s stages give the public a rare bridge to the past. The events are not museums under glass.