The unique and eye-catching Legends Cars Championship is celebrating its landmark 30th anniversary in 2024 – a milestone season which commenced at Donington Park last weekend on the high profile BTCC bill. 

Over the past three decades, the ever-popular all-action series has consistently provided fantastic grids, ‘bump-drafting’ and the ultimate in wheel-to-wheel action…  not to mention an insane amount of overtaking in each and every race. 

Featuring striking 5/8 scale replicas of 1930s Fords and Chevys from the USA, all powered by 1250cc Yamaha motorcycle engines, the pocket rockets in Legends are capable of speeds in excess of 120mph and never fail to deliver for competitors and spectators alike. Legends Cars racing is also one of the most cost-effective forms of motorsport anywhere in the world with a full season in the UK, on average around 40 races, possible for just £20,000.   

Racegoers in the UK had never seen anything like the Legends Cars when they were first introduced way back in 1994 and the sight immediately won over spectators. Tick Steward, who tragically passed away in 2002 at the all-too-early age of 52 following a lengthy battle with cancer, won the first ever race which was contested at Brands Hatch. Tick went on to win 11 of the first 12 races. 

The 500th Legends Cars race took place in May 2006 and was won by Chris Grieve. Fast forward to the landmark 1000th race, in March 2016, and this was won by Connor Mills – the reigning and inaugural Legends Cars Elite Cup Champion. In 2018, renowned Legends Cars racer John Mickel secured his record-breaking fifth Legends Cars Championship title. 

One of the most popular aspects of Legends Cars racing in the UK is the unique structure of race weekends. Grids for the first ‘Heat’ each day are set by ballot rather than qualifying times – meaning the fastest drivers can often be found near the back and needing to battle their way through the order as quickly as possible in the short, sharp contests.  

For the second Heat the result of the ballot is reversed. Then, starting positions for the third and ‘Final’ race each day, which is slightly longer duration, are determined by points which have been accrued during the two Heats. There’s a twist though – the highest scoring drivers are placed at the back. Stunning action is guaranteed in every race, at every circuit. 

“It’s a very important year for Legends Cars in the UK,” said Phil Cooper, championship owner. “We are looking forward to seeing as many fans as possible. We always pride ourselves on being the friendliest paddock in British motorsport.” 

After kicking off at Donington, between now and the end of September Legends’ 30th birthday championship also visits Brands Hatch, Knockhill, Snetterton and Oulton Park. To find out more click here.