Behind the Scenes: Elite Garages at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2025

If you were among the 200,000+ enthusiasts soaking up the action at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2025, chances are you didn’t miss the 8.5-foot-tall tyre horse towering above the crowds. This unexpected showstopper wasn’t part of a race team or a heritage collection — it was proudly displayed by Elite Garages, bringing a bold new spin to the idea of horsepower.

With over 60 years of history as a family-run business and a trusted name in MOTs, tyres, and car servicing across the south of England, Elite Garages used the festival to show that they’re more than just a pit stop. Here’s what made their presence one of the weekend’s most memorable moments.

What Elite Showed at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2025

A Tyre Sculpture That Turned Heads

At over eight feet tall, the striking tyre horse sculpture at the Elite Garages stand became one of the most photographed features at this year’s event. Built entirely from used tyres, it wasn’t just a clever metaphor for horsepower — it was a visual tribute to Elite’s expertise as one of the UK’s longest-standing independent tyre specialists.

This creative centrepiece underlined the brand’s commitment to both innovation and sustainability. With thousands of tyres in stock and free tyre safety checks offered year-round, the sculpture was more than art; it was a symbol of trust, expertise, and road safety.

A Blend of Heritage and Motorsport Innovation

It wasn’t just about modern service as Elite also brought along a beautifully preserved 1911 Pilain car. Designed by early automotive pioneer François Pilain, this rare model featured a 3.1-litre T-head engine and drew waves of admiration from classic car lovers throughout the weekend.

For modern motorsport fans, a set of authentic Formula 1 tyres added high-octane credibility to the stand. They weren’t just props, they represented the cutting-edge technology and precision that Elite Garages aims to deliver across its network.

A Nostalgic Throwback: The S-Cargo Van

Long-time customers were thrilled to spot Elite’s quirky Nissan S-Cargo van, once used for tyre deliveries. More than a nostalgic throwback, it added personality and a touch of humour to the stand. It also told a story: this is a company that grows without forgetting where it came from.

A Test of Skill: Elite’s Racing Simulator

The stand wasn’t just for looking, it was also for racing. The Elite Garages racing simulator proved to be a fan favourite, drawing queues as visitors competed for the fastest lap times. For a brand focused on real-world driving safety and performance, this was a fun, high-speed reminder that precision matters.

Building Connections, One Conversation at a Time

Throughout the four-day event, Elite’s team connected with hundreds of visitors; from loyal customers to curious first-timers. The team handed out goody bags, shared expert advice, and spoke proudly about their partnership with Bosch Car Service, known for delivering top-tier diagnostic tools and replacement parts.

In their own words:

One of the most rewarding parts of the festival was the opportunity to connect with both loyal existing customers and enthusiastic new faces interested in what we offer. Our dedicated team worked tirelessly throughout the festival, persevering in the hot weather. The team’s energy, professionalism, and passion ensured our presence at Goodwood was not only successful but memorable.

Looking Ahead After the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2025

Elite Garages didn’t just show up at the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2025. They made a statement. From the jaw-dropping tyre sculpture to the historic Pilain car and modern motorsport elements, their presence highlighted a business that understands the past, leads in the present, and is ready for the future.

As for next year? Let’s just say the bar’s been set high — possibly 8.5 feet high.

Explore Elite Garages

With 19 locations across the south of England, Elite Garages offers MOTs, servicing, diagnostics, tyres, brakes, wheel alignment, and much more. Find your nearest branch and book online today.