Estoril Classics celebrates 75 years of F1 cars with a luxury Classic GP grid

The Classic GP, part of the Estoril Classics programme, will present in 2025 its finest entry list ever, bringing together some of the most iconic cars in Formula 1 history to celebrate 75 years of the sport’s vehicles. Once again, the event will transform the Autódromo do Estoril into a living museum, where the history of the category is faithfully recreated.

From the 1971 Surtees TS9 to the 1983 Tyrrell 012, the twenty-six-car grid spans twelve years of evolution that shaped modern Formula 1. It is a true parade of technical innovations: aluminium monocoques, naturally aspirated engines roaring to dizzying revs, the ground-effect revolution, and, by the end of this period, the transition to the first composite materials. At Estoril, this technological metamorphosis will be felt on track, in a spectacle where each car stands as a testament to an era of boldness and ingenuity.

One of the stand out cars is the 1977 Lotus 78, entered by Marc Devis – the car that revolutionised aerodynamics by introducing venturi tunnels to generate ground effect. This model was the precursor to the Lotus 79, with which the British team claimed the 1978 titles, crowning Mario Andretti as World Champion.

Next up are two cars that heralded the dawn of Williams’ golden era. The 1980 FW07B, driven by Mark Hazell, delivered Grove its first Constructors’ and Drivers’ Championships, the latter secured by Alan Jones. Its successor, the 1981 FW07C, will also be on track, piloted by Yutaka Toriba – a machine that extended the team’s competitiveness into the early 1980s.

Another technological milestone present at the Classic GP will be the 1982 McLaren MP4, entered for Steve Hartley – the first Formula 1 car to feature a full carbon-fibre monocoque chassis, an innovation that redefined the standards of safety and performance in the category.

Finally, the 1983 Tyrrell 012, piloted by Ian Simmonds, completes this historical sequence. This was the last car to win a Grand Prix with the legendary Cosworth DFV engine, when Michele Alboreto triumphed at the Detroit Grand Prix.

With a grid that also includes Ligier, Shadow, Arrows, Surtees and other iconic models that shaped generations, the Classic GP offers a unique opportunity to see and hear live the machines that wrote some of motorsport’s most memorable chapters.

The engines will roar on Friday, 3 October, with free practice and qualifying sessions, followed by the first race on Saturday at 17:05 and the second on Sunday at 14:05.

Entry to the main straight grandstand will be free of charge, but access to the Paddock is limited and requires a ticket. Online sales run until 23:59 on 2 October, and if any tickets remain, they can be purchased at the Autódromo box office from 3 to 5 October, between 09:00 and 18:00.

Paddock entry tickets are priced at €20 for Friday, €35 for Saturday or Sunday, and €60 for a three-day pass. These tickets grant access to the restricted paddock areas, allowing fans to closely follow the car preparations and experience the unique behind-the-scenes atmosphere. Children up to 15 years old may enter the paddock free of charge, provided they are accompanied by an adult holding a valid ticket.

PROVISIONAL ENTRY LIST