Brooklands Museum has been shortlisted in four categories at the 2026 International Historic Motoring Awards, recognising its Grand Prix Centenary celebrations, new exhibition, digital storytelling and the achievements of Event Director Mark Hastings.
The International Historic Motoring Awards celebrate excellence across the global historic and collector car world. Established in 2011, they recognise the people and organisations helping to preserve, celebrate and share motoring heritage, with winners across most categories selected by an international panel of experts.
The Brooklands Museum nominations follow a landmark year for the museum, which celebrated 100 years since Britain’s first Grand Prix took place at Brooklands on 7th August 1926.
Motoring Event of the Year – Grand Prix Centenary
Held on 7th–8th August, the Grand Prix Centenary brought together 125 Grand Prix and Formula One cars at the birthplace of British Grand Prix racing. The celebrations included a recreation of the 1926 race start, appearances by celebrated racing figures including Damon Hill, and opportunities to see historic cars in action. A sold-out Saturday demonstrated the enduring appeal of Brooklands and the ambition of an event that could only happen once.
Museum or Collection of the Year – Britain’s Grand Prix Story
Opened in June in the historic Jackson Shed, Britain’s Grand Prix Story is Brooklands Museum’s first new motoring exhibition in more than 20 years. It explores a century of racing through the people, engineering and innovation that shaped the sport, connecting Brooklands’ pioneering past with its continuing influence. The accompanying Simulator Experience gives visitors the chance to get behind the wheel and add another dimension to their visit.
Personal Achievement of the Year – Mark Hastings
Event Director Mark Hastings has been shortlisted for his work in bringing the Grand Prix Centenary to life. His leadership, attention to detail and collaboration with vehicle owners, partners, staff and volunteers helped deliver an ambitious celebration, assembling an extraordinary collection of cars and creating a memorable experience for thousands of visitors.
Digital Media of the Year – Grand Prix Centenary
The museum’s digital submission celebrates the storytelling that brought the centenary to audiences before, during and after the event. Through films, archive material, social media and coverage of the celebrations, the campaign connected a defining moment in motoring history with today’s audiences, building anticipation and sharing the occasion far beyond the Museum’s gates.
Alex Patterson, CEO of Brooklands Museum, said: “To be shortlisted in four categories is a wonderful recognition of the imagination, dedication and care that people across Brooklands put into this extraordinary year.
“The Grand Prix Centenary gave us the opportunity to celebrate a moment in history in the very place where it happened. From the remarkable cars and their owners to our new exhibition and the stories shared online, so many people helped make that celebration memorable.
“These nominations give our staff, volunteers, Members and supporters plenty to feel proud of, and I want to thank everyone who played a part.”
The winners will be announced in November.
