Remembering Geoff Steel

The motorsport community recently lost one of its most respected and recognisable figures with the passing of Geoff Steel, founder of Geoff Steel Racing and a long-standing presence within British endurance racing.

The name Geoff Steel has been closely associated with the BMW marque for decades. Geoff himself competed as a driver earlier in his career, including two seasons in the British Touring Car Championship during the early 1990s, campaigning a privateer BMW E36.

Alongside his own racing, Geoff built a highly respected engineering and preparation operation in Lincolnshire, specialising in BMW race cars. Through Geoff Steel Racing, he became a familiar and trusted figure in endurance racing paddocks across the UK and beyond.

Over more than two decades the team developed a strong reputation for building fast, reliable and meticulously prepared race cars, while supporting drivers competing across a range of endurance championships.

Geoff’s involvement in endurance racing extended to some of the most significant events in the British motorsport calendar, including championship campaigns and major endurance races such as the Silverstone 24 Hours, where Geoff Steel Racing achieved overall victory in 2012.

Despite the growth and success of the team, Geoff remained deeply involved in the day-to-day reality of race weekends. Known for his quiet determination and work ethic, he could often still be seen around the paddock helping the team wherever needed, whether that meant working on the car or transporting equipment across the circuit.

Away from motorsport he was also known for his love of cycling, regularly competing in endurance cycling events well into his 60s.

For Julian McBride, Geoff’s role went far beyond that of team owner or engineer.

Since the early stages of Julian’s racing career, Geoff played a central role in the development of his race cars and endurance racing programme. What began as a professional relationship soon became something much more personal.

Julian reflected on Geoff’s influence:

“Since 2016, Geoff Steel was more than just the man behind my race car builds. He became a trusted partner, a mentor and a friend.

From the first build to every trackside moment, his knowledge, passion and support were invaluable. I’ll miss him dearly, but his legacy and the lessons he gave me will live on in every lap we take.

Rest in peace Geoff. You’ll always be part of this journey.”

Geoff’s impact on the motorsport community extended far beyond the cars he built or the races his teams competed in. His knowledge, generosity and passion for the sport helped shape the careers of many drivers and teams over the years.

He will be greatly missed across the paddock and within the wider motorsport community.

His legacy, however, continues through the team he built and the many people whose racing journeys he helped support.