Celebrating 'The James Hunt Years' at the 83rd Members' Meeting

18th April 2026

Annabel Heaton

On the 50^th anniversary of his World Championship triumph, the 83^rd Members’ Meeting presented by Audrain Motorsport burst into celebration as we honoured the legacy of James Hunt — one of Formula 1’s most charismatic and unforgettable stars.

Across the Motor Circuit, an exhilarating collection of cars charted Hunt’s F1 journey from 1973-79, and it was impossible not to feel a thrill knowing that among them was the very McLaren M23 in which he sealed his title at the dramatic 1976 Japanese Grand Prix. Strolling through the paddocks, the line‑up of cars includes the Ferrari 312T — a car bearing the name of Hunt’s greatest rival, Niki Lauda, and a Brabham BT21, with Hunt's Championship-winner shining brightest of all between them, looking every bit as glorious as you’d hope.

Once these wonderful machines fired into life, the excitement around the Motor Circuit only grew. Seeing them on track brought Hunt’s story rushing back in full colour — from his bold, free-spirited days at Hesketh Racing to his Championship conquering years at McLaren.

Both the Hesketh 308C and the unmistakable McLaren M23 took to the Motor Circuit, and each lap felt like a step through Hunt’s career, with the cars perfectly capturing the fierce talent and larger-than-life personality that defined him.

And just when it felt like the tribute couldn’t get any better, Freddie Hunt stepped forward to wave the chequered flag to bring a hugely evocative few laps to a close. To truly channel his father’s spirit, there was champagne ready to be sprayed, and a James Hunt look-alike, cigar raised proudly — because how else could it end? This feature didn’t just celebrate Hunt’s legacy; it was an electrifying moment for all of us in attendance, reminding us all just how indelible his mark on motorsport truly is.

The 83rd Members' Meeting is live now! You can watch every moment of the action on our live stream right here on GRR.

Tickets for the 84th Members’ Meeting will be available immediately after this year’s event for Members and Fellows of the GRRC. Admission and Grandstand tickets will go on sale on Monday 20th April for Members, and Tuesday 21st April for Fellows.

Photography by Tom Baigent, Pete Summers and Joe Harding.