Magna, set within the former Templeborough Steelworks, is a Millennium Project which opened in 2001 as an independent charitable trust dedicated to STEM learning, protecting the industrial heritage of its unique building and playing an active role in the region’s leisure and business economy. It also boasts 4,000 sq m of dedicated event space.
The impressive surroundings enabled Rowan to host a unique celebration to reflect on last year’s season, unveil his new car and look ahead to the new campaign.
Over the last two years, Rowan has collected more than 30 trophies and awards securing him a place in the top 10 standings of British Formula 4. His international debut last year also led him to achieve three further trophies, and he finished third overall in the F4 UAE Trophy Series.
The upcoming season will see Rowan step up from British F4 to the UK’s premier single seater category, the GB3 Championship, run in partnership with the BRDC.
This will be Rowan’s first full European campaign taking place across eight events in five countries in 2026. The calendar includes trips to five popular Formula 1 circuits: Spa-Francorchamps, Hungaroring, Barcelona-Catalunya, Silverstone and the Red Bull Ring.
Rejoining the team responsible for his UAE win last year, Rowan has been signed by Dubai-based Xcel Motorsport, for his GB3 debut.
Xcel Motorsport races in both British F4 and MSV GB3 championships in the UK, as well as around the world in F4 and Karting. The team has also recently established a brand-new facility in Wokingham to strengthen its operation in the UK.
The car will have upgrades in aerodynamics and the use of a Drag Reduction System (DRS) – similar to those used in Formula 1.
Rowan will also benefit from a newly increased 2.4L engine which will provide the power for him to achieve speeds of over 150mph.
Rowan said: “This event marked the end of one chapter and the start of another. It’s provided a unique opportunity to look back on an incredible year of racing, but also to celebrate the next step forward in my career.
“I can’t wait to get behind the wheel of the GB3 car, take on new circuits in new countries and embrace the challenges that come with them.
“It is always such an honour to represent Sheffield on the world stage. It means a huge amount to me and I can’t wait to do it again across Europe.”
The exclusive evening at Magna Adventure Centre was presented by double Superbike World Champion James Toseland.
On the night, Rowan was presented with the Sheffield Youth Award for Sport and Fitness Star for his dedication and commitment to motorsport. Performances from local dance troupe, Gemini School of Dance, and staging and lighting from Stream7 also helped make the celebration.
The headline partner for the event was Cobra Manufacturing and Cobra Exhausts, who are part of a family-run, Sheffield-based manufacturing business specialising in supplying stainless steel exhausts and precision fabrication nationally and internationally.
Rachel Abbott, Chair of Made in Sheffield and CEO of Cobra Sport Exhausts, said: “At Cobra, we were absolutely thrilled to support this event, which shines a spotlight on Sheffield’s incredible sporting legacy and the strength of talent that continues to come out of the place we call home.
“It’s especially rewarding to partner with Rowan for the upcoming season, both at Cobra and as part of Made in Sheffield. Supporting homegrown talent is at the core of what Made in Sheffield is all about and having Rowan act as our ambassador is wonderful.
“We can’t wait to follow his progress this season and cheer him on as he represents the region with pride.”
This year, Rowan is supported by regional partners Altitude, Exol Lubricants, H Harrold & Sons, Hydra Creative, Rathbones PLC, Simoda, Made in Sheffield and UX Global.
Steve Everitt, Managing Director at Exol Lubricants, which operates a plant in Rotherham, said: “We enjoyed our partnership with Rowan last year, following his success through British F4 and the subsequent championships in the UAE. It’s a fantastic opportunity to be part of his next chapter in the UK’s GB3 Championship to support emerging talent in a highly competitive arena.
“Rowan’s dedication and drive perfectly aligns with our commitment to excellence, and we look forward to joining his journey as he continues to make his mark in the racing world. We’d like to wish Rowan and his team the best of luck this season!”
Magna website
Rowan Campbell-Pilling website
Images: Made in Sheffield / Stream 7
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