GCU Racing students unveil 2026 Formula Student car after months of perseverance
GCU Racing students have unveiled their latest race car ahead of their return to the Formula Student competition at Silverstone next month, where they will compete against university teams from across the world.
One of the team members is Manufacturing Director Rhys Miller, who has been part of GCU Racing for the past three years.
As one of the society's three managing directors, Rhys oversees the production and planning of the race car, ensuring machining, fabrication and assembly stay on schedule while balancing the demands of university life.
Taking place from 15 to 19 July, Formula Student is Europe's largest educational motorsport competition, bringing together more than 100 university teams to design, build and race single-seater cars and autonomous vehicles.
Organised by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, the competition is recognised across the engineering industry as a pathway into careers in motorsport, automotive engineering, aerospace and defence.
Ahead of the competition, we caught up with Rhys to hear about the skills he has developed through GCU Racing and what representing GCU at Silverstone means to him and the team.
How does it feel to see the finished car unveiled after months of hard work?
“To see the car completed and ready for the car unveiling is a real testament to the work that the 2026 GCU Racing team has put in.
“There were a lot of hurdles throughout the year, some that left us in doubt, but the team persevered and managed to present a finished race car that we can all be proud of.”
What has been the biggest challenge you've faced while helping to design and build the car?
“The biggest challenge I have faced is definitely balancing my academic calendar and Formula Student deadlines.
“My university deadlines will always take a priority and so, I often have to take a step away from Formula Student. However, I take a step back knowing that there are very capable team members to fill in where needed.”
Formula Student is one of the biggest engineering competitions in Europe. What does it mean to you to represent GCU at Silverstone?
“It is a true honour to represent GCU at Silverstone and has been for the past 3 years. Formula Student gives me a place to showcase the skills that I have learned at GCU, while competing with fellow students at an international event.
“It is such a unique experience that I will treasure long after I graduate.”
What skills or experiences have you gained through GCU Racing that you couldn't have learned in a classroom alone?
“GCU Racing has definitely allowed me to advance my design and analysis skills. Working alongside a large team has outlined the requirement for communication throughout all phases of design work.
“A part that I might design may not be suitable for another member's area of the car, meaning we would need to work together to achieve both of our aims. Also, during my time in GCU Racing, I was given the opportunity to learn how to MIG Weld and was also taught how to safely handle power tools and machinery.”
Looking ahead to Silverstone, what are the team's goals and what would success look like for you?
“Our team goals throughout the competition are to improve our static judging elements. This includes showcasing that our design and manufacturing choices - throughout the year - follow good engineering practices.
“We also have the ultimate goal of putting our car on track, competing in dynamic events against other university vehicles. Last year, we made a huge step forward to this and having our car ready and complete gives the team the confidence we need to make this goal a reality.”
You can join GCU Racing for a fee of £15 per year
By Lucy Rodgers
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