The 2026 Goodwood Revival is set to be an unforgettable event, with a celebration of Italian culture and style taking center stage. As part of the festivities, around 300 iconic Italian scooters, including Vespas, Lambrettas, Italjets, and Isos, will take to the track each morning, forming a colorful and enthusiastic parade. The majority of the scooters will be original pre-1967 models, fitting in with the Revival era.
The theme of “La Dolce Vita” (the sweet life) will permeate every aspect of the event, with the romance and passion of Italian culture on full display. The parade will feature a wide range of Vespa models, showcasing the brand’s 80-year history and its impact on Italian culture. From its humble beginnings as a post-war mode of transportation to its current status as a global phenomenon, the Vespa has become an iconic symbol of Italian style and freedom.
The story of the Vespa’s creation is a fascinating one. In the aftermath of World War II, Italy was in need of an affordable mode of transport, and two engineers at Piaggio began working on a new motorcycle design. The initial design was rejected, but with the help of aeronautical engineer Corradino D’Ascanio, a new design was created, featuring a unique bodywork and engine placement. The prototype was dubbed the “MP6,” and when Enrico Piaggio saw it, he remarked on its resemblance to a wasp, saying “Sembra una vespa!” (It looks like a wasp!). The name stuck, and the Vespa was born.
The Vespa quickly became a sensation, with its elegance and simplicity personifying Italian style. It was easy to improve and adjust, and it soon became available with a range of engine options and variants. By 1966, there were over 30 different Vespa models available, and the brand had become a global phenomenon.
The 2026 Goodwood Revival will be a celebration of the Vespa’s 80th anniversary, and the Track Opening Parade will be a highlight of the event. With 300 or more Vespas taking to the track, it promises to be an unforgettable sight. Tickets for the event are now on sale, and fans of Italian culture and style won’t want to miss out on the opportunity to experience the magic of La Dolce Vita.