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Silverstone









Silverstone seems to be synonymous with Moss, Hill, Senna, Schumacher, Fangio and Stewart. It is one of the foremost Formula One tracks that hosted numerous exciting races.

Silverstone, one of 2008 Formula One venues, is known to be the base of the motor racing in Britain.

This Northampton track had been the host of one of the foremost Grand Prix World Championships. Previously, this track was used as an airfield; however, in 1948 it was transformed for car racing. The racing track came into existence after the creation of the perimeter road and runways. This track housed two Grand Prix championships, before it was vacated. It is at this site that Jose Froilan Gonzalez won the first World Championship for Scuderia in 1951.

The racing track of Silverstone remained unchanged since its inception till 1975. This track is one of the famous Grand Prix destinations that has hosted a number of exciting races. The accident involving Jody Scheckter was one of the foremost accident that took place in Silverstone.

A new track was added to the existing track of Silverstone in 1987. Again in 1991, the track was revamped and it was transformed into a 3.247 mile layout. The first race on the new track was won by Mansell. The track again underwent some construction in 1994. Damon Hill became the winner in this new track. Jonny Herbert acquired the title in 1995. Moreover, in 1996 and 1997, Villeneuve emerged as the unprecedented hero of the race. Michael Schumacher's victory in 1998 called a bit of controversy, as his feat had entitled him to a penalty. Scot Coulhard, the native hero, won the race in 1999 and 2000 respectively.

Some of the major events that took place in Silverstone are:

  • Competition between Hunt and Watson to secure a title in 1977
  • Victory of Clay Regazzoni in 1979
  • Watson's emotional victory in 1981

Thus, it is evident that Silverstone is among the important venues, which unfolds a long history of car racing. This famous racing track of Britain has seen the emergence of a number of car racers such as Mansell, Jonny Herbert, Villeneuve, Michael Schumacher and Scot Coulhard.

2008 Formula One Venues