The theme for the 2019 Goodwood Festival of Speed has been announced as the event prepares for its 27th running over the weekend of 4-7 July.

“Speed Kings – Motorsport’s Record Breakers,” will see the famous hillclimb roar to the sound of machines that have made a mark on motorsport in an historic way.

A focus on “people and machinery that set the benchmark” in the pursuit of success – particularly the Land Speed Record – will see tributes to those with the most consecutive wins, most championships, fastest laps and much more.

Head of Motorsport Content Will Kinsman commented: “We are delighted with this year’s theme, as it offers an opportunity to celebrate the ultimate heroes of motorsport past, present and future,”

“The team are working hard to ensure the paddocks are bursting with the most talented drivers and riders alongside the most iconic road and race machines in the world.

“They are also delving into the more obscure corners of the motorsport world to ensure the Festival of Speed maintains and enhances its reputation as the greatest motorsport show on earth.”

This year also marks the 20th anniversary of Nick Heidfeld taking the record for a run up the hill in a time of 41.6 seconds in a McLaren Mercedes MP4/13.

Last year the Volkswagen I.D. R Pikes Peak car came close topping the time and it is hoped that 2019 could finally see the record broken.