Formula 1: Getting Ready for the British Grand Prix at Silverstone
As the Formula 1 calendar moves from Spielberg to Silverstone, the excitement builds for the British Grand Prix, the final part of this triple-header sequence. In this Need to Know guide, we bring you vital statistics, trivia, insight, and much more to get you ready for the weekend.
Schedule and Stats
First and second practice will take place on Friday, July 5, followed by final practice and qualifying on Saturday, July 6, and the Grand Prix itself on Sunday, July 7. Silverstone, with its rich history, is a favorite among drivers, teams, and fans alike. Here are some key stats:
- First Grand Prix: 1950
- Track Length: 5.891km
- Lap record: 1m 27.097s, Max Verstappen, Red Bull, 2020
- Most pole positions: Lewis Hamilton (7)
- Most wins: Lewis Hamilton (8)
- Trivia: Silverstone hosted the inaugural Formula 1 World Championship round on May 13, 1950
- Pole run to Turn 1 braking point: 239 meters
- Overtakes completed in 2023: 50
- Safety Car probability: 89%
- Virtual Safety Car probability: 22%
- Pit stop time loss: 19.9 seconds (includes 2.5s stop)
Fan View and Predictions
According to our F1 Play predictor game, Lando Norris is the pole favorite, edging out Max Verstappen. In the victory stakes, Verstappen has a significant lead, with Norris trailing behind. However, Mercedes and McLaren are gaining pace, and fans are excited to see how the weekend unfolds.
Insight from Jolyon Palmer
Former Renault F1 driver Jolyon Palmer shares his insights on Silverstone, highlighting the challenges of Copse, Maggots, and Becketts, where drivers experience high G-forces. He notes that finding a rhythm through these sweeping parts is crucial, as it puts a lot of strain on the front-left tire.
Onboard Lap
Take a look at Max Verstappen‘s 2023 Pirelli Pole Position Award lap at the British Grand Prix for a taste of what’s in store this weekend.
Last Five British GP Winners
- 2023: Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
- 2022: Carlos Sainz (Ferrari)
- 2021: Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
- 2020: Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
- 2019: Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
Tyre Talk
Pirelli has chosen the hardest compounds in their range for this round, with the C1 as P Zero hard, the C2 as P Zero medium, and the C3 as P Zero soft. The front axle comes under the greatest strain, and the prevalence of right-hand turns means that the left front is the tyre that wears the most.
Weather Forecast
The weather in England can be unpredictable, with conditions changing rapidly. Last year, the entire race was run in the dry, with the soft compound being a surprising protagonist.
Off-Track Action
This weekend, Formula 1 is also highlighting its Sustainability Strategy, aiming to be Net Zero by 2030. Scholars from the Formula 1 Engineering Scholarship programme will be on-site for an immersive F1 experience. Additionally, charity partners such as Race Against Dementia, Great Ormond Street Hospital, Make-A-Wish Foundation, and Mission 44 will be present, and Silverstone is introducing sustainable initiatives like solar-powered food outlets and recycling programs.
Get ready for an epic weekend of Formula 1 action at Silverstone!
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