GCU Racing invited to compete at Prescott Hill Climb following Silverstone success

Glasgow Caledonian University’s Formula Student team, GCU Racing, will this weekend make its debut at the prestigious Prescott Hill Climb after receiving a special invitation from The Bugatti Trust.

The invitation followed a visit by Trust representatives to this summer’s Formula Student UK competition at Silverstone, where they were impressed by the team’s progress and professionalism.

The Prescott Hill Climb, in the Gloucestershire countryside, is one of the most iconic venues in British motorsport. First opened in 1938 and still run by the Bugatti Owners’ Club, the narrow, twisting course climbs more than 200 feet in just under 1,000 yards. The event attracts top drivers and engineering talent each year, and GCU Racing’s participation marks a significant endorsement of the University’s student engineers.

This appearance comes during a breakthrough year for the team. Now in only its third season, GCU Racing achieved its long-standing goal of presenting a fully built car for scrutineering at Silverstone. After addressing almost 30 required fixes during intensive pit work, the car went on to pass major safety and chassis checks. The squad also posted a sharp improvement in the Design event, lifting its score by 27 points this year.

In preparation for Prescott, the team last week carried out its first full engine test at Kames Motorsport Circuit in Ayrshire. The successful run provided valuable data and hands-on experience for students.

Professor Tuleen Boutaleb, Vice-Dean of the School of Science and Engineering, said: “Looking ahead, the team is already reviewing its structures to create more focused sub-groups and strengthen preparations for Formula Student 2026. In the meantime, the invitation to Prescott offers a fitting stage to celebrate recent achievements and showcase the hard work of Glasgow Caledonian students on one of the most demanding and storied hill-climb courses in the country.”

Angela Hucke, Curator, The Bugatti Trust Museum and Study Centre, said: “As we move into our third year officially ‘on board’ with GCU Racing, it feels like the right time to reflect on how impressed we continue to be with the team’s commitment. Their determination to build the best possible Formula Student car, combined with a consistently professional approach and respect for their sponsors, sets them apart. We are always kept fully informed through direct contact, marketing updates and social media, which has helped build a strong and positive connection with GCU Racing. We are excited to continue that journey as we look ahead to 2025 and 2026.”