Thruxton Retro is set to return to Hampshire’s iconic race circuit from 3–5 July 2026, with organisers confirming the theme for next year as ‘Back to the 80s’.
Following the success of its debut event, the retro festival promises another full weekend celebrating classic motorsport, iconic music and family-friendly entertainment at the fastest race circuit in the UK.
Visitors can expect to turn the clock back to a decade synonymous with bold fashion, big hair and even bigger tunes. The 2026 event will feature two days of action-packed retro racing, alongside live 80s-inspired music, car and motorbike club displays, legendary machines, a fun fair and a wide range of food and drink options. On-site camping will also be available, allowing festivalgoers to make the most of the weekend atmosphere.
Tickets for Thruxton Retro 2026 will start from just £15, making it an accessible and affordable event for families, motorsport fans and music lovers alike. More details on the full line-up and timetable are expected to be announced in the coming months.
The announcement follows the huge success of Thruxton Retro – Presents Superfunk, which took place from Friday 20 to Sunday 22 June and marked the first event of its kind at the circuit. Proudly supported by Andover Radio & Love Andover, the three-day festival blended classic motorsport with live music and community entertainment, transforming Thruxton into a vibrant celebration of speed and sound.
The festival stage was headlined on Saturday night by internationally renowned ABBA tribute act Björn Again, with high-energy support from Earth Wind for Hire. The line-up also showcased a strong selection of local and tribute talent, including Marc Burford, MJ Ponting, Paul Jude Wilson and Weird Science. Country music fans were treated to Jo Alexandr’s Dolly Parton tribute, the popular ‘9 to 5 Show’, complete with line dancing and enthusiastic crowd participation.
As official media sponsors, Andover Radio & Love Andover played a central role throughout the weekend. Presenter Ben Tuffin hosted stage entertainment, games and competitions, encouraging visitors to get involved in fancy dress contests, “guess that tune” challenges and dance-offs. Prizes up for grabs included BSB Superbike tickets, karting experiences and exclusive merchandise.
Speaking after the event, Ben Tuffin said:
“It was an unbelievable weekend – the vibe, the music, the smiles – it was everything a community event should be. Seeing families and motorsport fans all mixing together, dancing and laughing, it felt really special. We can’t wait to do it all again.”
On track, motorsport enthusiasts were treated to a packed schedule celebrating the golden eras of racing. Highlights included competitive retro races, Formula 1 demonstrations and parade laps showcasing classic cars and vintage motorcycles. Local racer Jonathon Chandler represented the area in the Adrian Flux MG Owners Club Championship, adding a strong community connection to the racing action.
Younger visitors were kept entertained in the Kids Paddock, where Big Top Mania delivered circus workshops, inflatables and interactive performances. A local funfair also returned, alongside creative activities such as ‘paint a van’, ensuring there was plenty on offer for families throughout the weekend.
Food and drink proved equally popular, with craft beers from Rude Giant Brewery, including a limited-edition Thruxton IPA, complemented by hog roasts and artisan food stalls dotted around the site.
The event also gave festivalgoers an early glimpse of Thruxton’s evolving vision under owner Alex Thistlethwayte, who took over the circuit in May 2024.
He said:
“Thruxton is a magical place and we’re just getting started. Superfunk is all about fun, and that’s the future we see for this circuit – a place for mates, motors and memories.”
Ben Norton from the British Automobile Racing Club (BARC), which runs operations at Thruxton, added:
“I wanted to thank you [Andover Radio] for doing an amazing job throughout the event. You helped bring it to life!”
With the success of Superfunk firmly establishing Thruxton Retro as a must-visit event, anticipation is already building for Back to the 80s in 2026 – a weekend set to deliver nostalgia, noise and non-stop entertainment in equal measure.