Dakar Champion Ricky Brabec Lights Up the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed

It was Ricky’s first time at Goodwood and the sprawling grounds of the Duke of Richmond’s estate gave the Californian a warm four-day welcome filled with motorsport action. His 2024 Dakar Rally-winning Honda CRF450 RALLY was shipped in specially for the event and he didn’t disappoint, entertaining the crowds by wheelieing up the iconic hill climb as fans roared in appreciation.

“It’s a unique event. There are so many different forms of motorsport. The whole thing’s cool, not just one thing stands out, it’s the full package.”

Motorsport legends were everywhere. Ricky, along with thousands of spectators, got to witness Nigel Mansell reunited with his 1986 Williams Honda FW11, Alain Prost in the McLaren Honda MP4/4, and Visa Cash App Racing Bull’s Liam Lawson tackling the hill.

But two wheels had their moment too. Honda Racing UK’s TT legend John McGuinness, was there to give Ricky a taste of Goodwood spirit.

“John McGuinness is a legend. He’s a ‘loose programme’ kind of guy, which is more my style. It was great to chat with him and ride up the hill beside him for the first time.”

Ricky rode in a bike batch that included 2002 World Superbike Champion Colin Edwards on his Castrol Honda VTR1000, former MotoGP rider Carlos Checa and fellow Dakar winner Sam Sunderland. But it was Maria Costello’s TT sidecar that really caught his eye while waiting in the assembly area.

“I couldn’t even tell you how much horsepower is here this weekend, but it’s a lot. The sounds, the drifts, the burnouts, it’s insane. It’s such a pleasure to be here with Honda and I really feel welcomed at Goodwood.”

The festival wasn’t just about riding as Ricky and John also spent time at the Honda main stand for autograph sessions. Despite thinking no one would recognise him, Ricky was swarmed with fans eager for photos and signatures.

“Signing posters and hanging out with John on the Honda stand was cool. I was really happy to take pictures with everyone.”

Ricky’s Monster Energy Honda HRC teammate, Adrien Van Beveren, was a surprise last-minute attendee, riding over from Northern France to soak up the event for the first time.

And with a strong Dakar presence this year, including 14-time winner ‘Monsieur Dakar’ Stéphane Peterhansel and Ricky’s girlfriend, four-time Dakar Rally stage winner Sara Price, it was a weekend to remember for everyone.

“There’s so much to see and do and so many people. I’m definitely looking forward to coming back.”