World of Sport

PETROL HEADS - In this documentary episode Richard Henwood mines the ITV Sport archives to relive the high‑octane legends of James Hunt and Barry Sheene, capped by Kelvin Burt’s jaw‑dropping crash. A must‑watch programme highlight for UK television fans, offering a quick overview of motorsport drama that will thrill British TV viewers.

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW PETROL HEADS is a fresh documentary series on ITV Sport that sees veteran journalist Richard Henwood diving into the treasured ITV Sport archives. In this inaugural episode he revisits the high‑octane lives of Formula One legend James Hunt, motorcycle icon Barry Sheene and the jaw‑dropping crash of touring‑car star Kelvin Burt. The programme blends archival footage with contemporary analysis, offering UK television audiences a rare, behind‑the‑scenes look at three of motorsport’s most colourful characters. WHAT TO EXPECT VIEWERS WILL BE TAKEN ON A ROLLER‑COASTER RIDE THROUGH THE 1970s and 1980s, with each segment meticulously reconstructed from original race‑day reels, personal interviews and never‑before‑seen photographs. The episode balances the thrill of high‑speed competition with human stories – Hunt’s flamboyant charisma, Sheene’s relentless pursuit of speed, and Burt’s dramatic crash that reshaped safety standards. The documentary style is cinematic, yet the pacing feels like a well‑crafted drama, making it an engaging piece of entertainment as well as an informative in‑depth review for British TV fans. KEY FEATURES THIS SERIES STANDS OUT FOR ITS ARCHIVAL RICHNESS, HIGH‑QUALITY PRODUCTION VALUES AND RICH NARRATIVE. Richard Henwood’s authoritative voice provides a connective thread, while the use of restored footage gives the series a glossy, modern feel. The programme also includes expert commentary from former teammates, engineers and family members, adding depth and authenticity. The combination of drama‑like storytelling with documentary rigour makes PETROL HEADS a unique entry in the UK television landscape, offering full details that satisfy both casual viewers and hardcore motorsport enthusiasts. WHY WATCH FOR THE DISCERNING UK VIEWER, PETROL HEADS offers more than just a nostalgic trip; it delivers a comprehensive guide to a pivotal era in motorsport history. The series is perfect for those who appreciate quality British TV, seeking both entertainment and education. Its compelling narratives, stunning visual restoration and insightful analysis provide a fresh perspective on iconic figures, ensuring that every episode feels like a must‑see event in the television guide. UK viewers will find the series both thrilling and enlightening, cementing its place as a standout documentary in the current entertainment slate. ITV4 PROGRAMMING CONTEXT WHILE PETROL HEADS AIRS ON ITV, its calibre and thematic focus align closely with the kind of high‑profile documentary series often featured in ITV4 programming. The episode’s blend of sport, history and human drama mirrors the standards set by ITV4’s flagship documentaries, making it a complementary addition to any British TV viewer’s weekly schedule. Its inclusion in the broader UK television landscape highlights the growing appetite for well‑produced, archive‑driven content that appeals to both niche fans and the general audience.