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Charles Richmond, 11th Duke of Richmond

Chairman

The Goodwood Estate Company Limited

Chichester, UK

Charles Richmond

Rigby Group plc

Charles Richmond’s Biography

Charles Richmond, Duke of Richmond and Gordon, CBE DL is Chairman of the Goodwood Estate Company Limited, and founder of some of the world’s most iconic motorsport events. He was named as a CBE in 2024 for his contribution to heritage, sport and charity. The 11th Duke of Richmond, he succeeded his father as Chairman of the Goodwood Estate in 1994 after a successful career as an international photographer producing award-winning campaigns.

Since the 1st Duke of Richmond arrived at Goodwood in 1697, a passion for sport has been at the heart of life on the estate, with horseracing, motor racing, golf, flying, shooting and cricket all introduced by family members through the years. Today, Goodwood annually hosts Festival of Speed, Goodwood Revival and Members’ Meeting – three of the most important and immersive car culture events in the world – as well as the Qatar Goodwood Festival, popularly known as ‘Glorious Goodwood’.

The 11th Duke created Festival of Speed and Revival, launching in 1993 and 1998 respectively, bringing motor racing back to Goodwood after nearly three decades’... Charles Richmond, Duke of Richmond and Gordon, CBE DL is Chairman of the Goodwood Estate Company Limited, and founder of some of the world’s most iconic motorsport events. He was named as a CBE in 2024 for his contribution to heritage, sport and charity. The 11th Duke of Richmond, he succeeded his father as Chairman of the Goodwood Estate in 1994 after a successful career as an international photographer producing award-winning campaigns.

Since the 1st Duke of Richmond arrived at Goodwood in 1697, a passion for sport has been at the heart of life on the estate, with horseracing, motor racing, golf, flying, shooting and cricket all introduced by family members through the years. Today, Goodwood annually hosts Festival of Speed, Goodwood Revival and Members’ Meeting – three of the most important and immersive car culture events in the world – as well as the Qatar Goodwood Festival, popularly known as ‘Glorious Goodwood’.

The 11th Duke created Festival of Speed and Revival, launching in 1993 and 1998 respectively, bringing motor racing back to Goodwood after nearly three decades’ absence. The 9th Duke had first brought the sport to Goodwood when the Motor Circuit, originally the perimeter track of a Battle of Britain airfield, was the home of British motor racing from 1948 – 1966. Now, the focus is on ensuring enjoyment of racing well into the future. Festival of Speed is fast becoming a stage for alternative fuels and electric vehicles; in 2024, Goodwood Revival will become the first motorsport event to run its full race schedule on sustainable fuel.

Alongside events, Goodwood operates a diverse portfolio of businesses and welcomes over 1 million visitors each year. Rolls-Royce has also called Goodwood home since 2005, a move the 11th Duke, as a board member, was deeply involved in.

Goodwood Art Foundation, established by the 11th Duke, will open in summer 2025 with a show by the Turner Prize winning British artist Rachel Whiteread. more less

Charles Richmond’s Newsfeed

This is Money

Government asks motoring fans to help shape classic car policy

The Duke of Richmond, founder of the Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival, described the government's move as ‘providing a platform for people to give their insight into the classic car industry and what it means to them’.

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Goodwood's Duke of Richmond named CBE in New Year Honours List

Charles Gordon Lennox, Duke of Richmond and Gordon, has been made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to heritage, sport and charity.

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Charles Richmond’s Background

The Goodwood Estate Company Limited

Chairman

1994 - Present

Chichester, UK

Goodwood operates over 25 businesses, the creation of which has been guided by centuries of history, balanced with the ambition to remain relevant in today’s world. Goodwood’s 11,000 acres are home to a racecourse; motor circuit; 2 golf courses; aerodrome & flying school; cricket ground; organic farm; sustainable restaurant; The Kennels; Goodwood Hotel; Hound Lodge and Goodwood House.

Charles March

Photographer

Charles March began his career in photography as a still life and special effects photographer. With the advent of digital photography, his style has evolved, allowing for a freer, more painterly style, a departure from the precision of his earlier work.

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Charles Richmond’s Gallery

Duke of Richmond leaning on a pillar at Goodwood with car in background.

The Duke of Richmond leaning against a tree, Uli Weber 2010

The Duke of Richmond at Goodwood's Festival of Speed with Keanu Reeves and racing driver

The Duke of Richmond in a classic car at the Goodwood Revival 2021

The Duke of Richmond with restoration expert, Dominic Chinea at the Goodwood Revival festival.

Board Positions

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

Westhampnett, UK

The Duke was deeply involved in Rolls-Royce Motor Cars making Goodwood it’s home in 2005. As a Board Member, he has seen it not only grow from 300 to over 2,000 locally-employed people all housed in their unique and beautiful Headquarters which sits so brilliantly in the landscape, but also become one of the huge success stories of the UK car industry.

British Automobile Racing Club

President

Thruxton, UK

Founded in 1912 as the Cyclecar Club, the British Automobile Racing Club (BARC) is a prominent organisation in UK motorsport, managing race meetings and championships across the country. It operates from multiple venues, promoting motorsport safety, development, and competitive racing at both amateur and professional levels.

Other Business Interests

Goodwood

Chichester, UK

Goodwood made an estimated economic contribution of £323m in 2022 to its local economy. This contribution increases to £444m at a national level, reflecting wider expenditure made in the UK by visitors, exhibitors and suppliers. One of West Sussex’s major employers with over 750 permanent employees, Goodwood adds 1,500 casual workers around the peak season to run its events and hospitality.

Philanthropy

Goodwood Education Trust

Chairman & Trustee

Chichester, UK

The Goodwood Education Trust was founded in 1976 by the current Duke of Richmond’s father and is an independent charity operating on the Goodwood Estate. The Trust aims to foster environmental awareness and understanding among children and young people. Through educational visits, it promotes sustainable farming, heritage, and nature appreciation.

Media

Goodwood

Goodwood has built loyal, global and engaged digital communities that grow year on year, currently exceeding 5.8 million subscribers and achieving over 1 billion social impressions in 2023. Video views on the motorsport and automotive social channels typically top 400 million annually and Festival of Speed content has trended number one on YouTube. Click to view.

Interviews

A Look Inside Goodwood Estate, One of England's Grandest Homes

Mar 2024

A never-before-seen look at Goodwood, where letting the public in isn’t just a way to keep the lights on, it’s tradition.

The Duke of Richmond on the joys of hand-me-down style

Mar 2024

The Duke of Richmond is supporting the growing rewearing movement by hosting a ‘Future of Vintage’ summit at his Goodwood Estate home.

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Awards & Recognition

New Year Honours

Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE)

Jan 2024

The Duke of Richmond was named a Commander of the British Empire in the 2024 New Years Honours list. He received the honour for his services to heritage, sport and charity.

Public Service

West Sussex Lieutenancy

Deputy Lieutenant (DL)

2006 - Present

Chichester, UK

The West Sussex Lieutenancy is a ceremonial position representing the British monarch in West Sussex, England. The role of a Deputy Lieutenant is to represent the Lord-Lieutenant at a range of engagements in the county.

Charitable Interests

Chichester Boys' Club

Patron

Chichester, UK

Since its foundation in 1923, Chichester Boys’ Club has provided a safe and welcoming space for young people and adults to enjoy fun and interesting activities. The club is no longer just a youth club but a community hub for local groups including those with special needs, the elderly, those participating in the Duke of Edinburgh Award schemes, and sports clubs.

Chichester Harbour Trust

Patron

Chichester, UK

The Chichester Harbour Trust is a registered charity dedicated to the preservation of the Chichester Harbour National Landscape. Established in 2002, the Trust works in close collaboration with the Chichester Harbour Conservancy, local authorities, and the harbour community to protect more than 375 acres of land across 15 sites.

Dementia Support

Patron

Tangmere, UK

From its specialist dementia hub in Tangmere, West Sussex, Dementia Support provides the latest support, information, advice and activities for people living with dementia and their families. Bringing local services together under one roof, Dementia Support offers its customers individually tailored services that cover pre-diagnosis and continue throughout the entire dementia journey.

Greenpower Education Trust

Patron

Fontwell, UK

Greenpower Education Trust is a UK charity that aims to inspire young people to pursue careers in engineering by challenging them to design, build, and race electric vehicles. It provides practical, hands-on STEM education opportunities through its innovative projects and races, fostering teamwork, and environmental awareness among participants.

South Downs National Park Trust

Patron & Chairman of the Development Board

The South Downs Trust is the official charity of the South Downs National Park. The Trust is an independent organisation, governed by an autonomous and experienced board of trustees who oversee the work of the Trust.

Sussex Community Foundation

Patron

Sussex Community Foundation focuses on strengthening communities across Sussex by providing financial support and resources. It tackles a wide range of issues including poverty, education, and health aiming to create a fairer society. The foundation brings together local philanthropists, businesses, charity founders and community leaders to create the change that Sussex needs.

TT Riders Association

Patron

Douglas, IM

The TT Riders Association supports motorcycle racers who compete in the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy (TT) motorcycle races. It provides financial assistance, advice, and support to riders and their families, promoting safety and welfare within the motorsport community.

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Press Releases

Goodwood Press & Media

Click on the logo to access all news relating to events at Goodwood Estate.

Charles Richmond’s Education

Eton College