Often known as the home of Formula One. The Silverstone racing circuit has a tradition as long as F1. It was the first racing track to host the inaugural Formula One World Championship on May 13, 1950. The circuit is home to British Motor Racing. The track is situated on the site of a Royal Air Force bomber station, RAF Silverstone. The war station was once the base for the No. 17 Operational Training Unit between 1943 and 1946.
The track named Silverstone has an overwhelming story. The word Silverstone was first used for motorsport by an “ Ad Hoc” Group of friends in 1947. The next year Royal Automobile Club took a lease on the air base and set up a moto racing circuit. In 1975, the track hosted the first-ever MotoGP Championship races. Many stories revolve around one of the oldest F1 racing tracks to date. Here’s everything you need to Know about the Silverstone Circuit's history, facts, and stats.
History Of The Silverstone Circuit: British Grand Prix
The British Grand Prix Racing and the Silverstone circuit together boast a rich history in the world of Formula 1 racing. This track wasn't any regular racing track but an open area airfield base of the British Royal Air Force during World War 2. The track was a testing arena for war automobiles, but under the reign of the Royal Automobile Club, the first-ever British Grand Prix race took place in 1950. Even King George VI, himself graced the racing event.
Apart from Silverstone, another track named Aintree and Brands Hatch were simultaneously hosting the races until 1987.
Timeline Of The Evolution Of The Silverstone Racing Circuit
The track has undergone several modifications over the period. With enhanced safety standards, the track had been updated with various paddock facilities and racing spectacles. The most important was the incorporation of the new Arena Bridge Section in 1987. To understand better, I have covered the different modifications of the track made at different times. Here are some honorable mentions:
Timeline | Track History |
1943 | Built as an RAF Airfield Base During WW2. |
1948 | Hosted the First race, the RAC International Grand Prix. |
1950-1954 | Held First-Ever F1 World Championship Race. |
1963 | Became a permanent member of the FIA House of British Motorsport. |
1964-1975 | Several modifications were made including the famous Woodcore Chicane |
1987-1991 | Corners like the Stowe Corner and a brand new section between Abbey and Bridge were constructed. |
2003-2006 | New Pit exits and paddock complexes were designed |
2009 | To extend the contract of the FIA F1 World Championship |
2011-2015 | Few Changes were made with the new track elevation. |
2023-Beyond | Signed a new 10-year deal to host F1 races until 2034. |
Despite new challenges, the track still stands as the cornerstone of the F1 calendar. Throughout its history, the track witnessed some iconic moments in Formula One. From Nigel Mansell’s marvelous overtake on Piquet in 1987 to Lewis Hamilton’s eight victories have pivoted in shaping F1 history glory.
Stats Of The Silverstone Circuit: British Grand Prix
With the new update, the track looks more competitive with fast-paced corners. The former RAF airfield base is now a legendary battleground for British Motorsport, attracting over 480,000 fans worldwide across last year’s four-day race weekends. With 52 laps, the track is estimated to be about 5.189 km. The track covers 18 turns with 2 DRS detection point zones. With fast-paced corners and apex, the speed trap is to create chances to overtake during the race.
Let's have a look at the statistics of the oldest Formula 1 racing track and third-longest circuit in the realm of F1 racing.
Circuit Certification | Grade 1 |
Circuit Classification | FIA Licensed F1 Racing Track |
Circuit Length | 5.891 KM |
Race Distance | 306.198 KM |
No. Of Laps | 52 |
First Grand Prix | 1950 |
Last Grand Prix | 2023 |
No. Of Turns | 18 |
DRS Active Zones | 2 |
Fastest Lap | 1:27:097 (Max Verstappen, 2020) |
Records Made At The Silverstone Circuit: British Grand Prix
With a daring overtake by Nigel over Prost, the track still holds one of ruthless driving underneath. British Motorsport had not evolved until Silverstone existed. This track itself holds prestigious records for being the first-ever F1 racing track in the world. Other memorable records are as follows:
Most Wins By F1 Racer - The most British Grand Prix races are won by the British racing legend, Lewis Hamilton. He won his home grand prix 8 times.
Most Pole Position By Any Driver - Lewis Hamilton (7)
Most Wins By Any F1 Team Constructors - Ferrari (16)
Silverstone Circuit Extended Its Contract to Host F1 Races Until 2034
In 2023, the race organizers of the Silverstone racing circuit signed a 10-year deal with the FIA to host F1 races at the Silverstone until 2034. The track was entering the final year of its debuted contract at the end of the 2024 season. But, the fans and the British motorsport look like they don’t want to fade away their home turf. Alas, the deal will entitle the Silverstone and British Grand Prix for more than 10 years.
What are your special moments from the British Grand Prix? Do let us know in the comment below. To read various exciting F1 news and articles please subscribe to us for more updates and follow us on social media.
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