Silverstone’s place in Formula One history may soon be matched by a permanent spot in its future, as the sport’s chief executive, Stefano Domenicali, expressed strong support for keeping the British Grand Prix at the iconic circuit indefinitely. Speaking ahead of this weekend’s race, Domenicali emphasized the irreplaceable role Silverstone plays in the F1 world.
Home to the first-ever world championship race in 1950, Silverstone continues to be a cornerstone of the sport, currently contracted to host races through 2034. With more than 480,000 spectators attending last year’s event—the highest attendance on the calendar—it remains a fan favorite and a logistical hub for the sport. Britain is also home to seven of the ten F1 teams, reinforcing its centrality to Formula One operations.
“There’s no other place in the UK where you can host such a large and successful event,” Domenicali said. “Silverstone has all the right characteristics to remain on the calendar permanently. I can't imagine a Formula One championship without a race in Britain.”
Despite his praise, Domenicali also confirmed that there are no plans to expand F1’s presence in the UK to a second race. His comments come just before a visit to Downing Street, where he and several drivers and team principals are expected to meet with Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The meeting, intended to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the first F1 race, also presents an opportunity to address critical industry issues.
Domenicali highlighted Formula One’s significant contribution to the UK economy—estimated at £12 billion annually, supporting 6,000 direct jobs and another 41,000 in a supply chain of over 4,500 businesses. However, he warned that post-Brexit visa and logistical challenges are placing pressure on the UK’s position as the sport’s global hub.
While he does not foresee teams leaving the UK in the near term, he noted that ongoing bureaucratic hurdles could force operational changes. “We’re not asking for policy changes,” he clarified, “but for practical solutions that reduce economic burdens and ensure the UK remains attractive as Formula One’s heartland.”
Silverstone may not yet have the ultra-long-term contracts seen at Miami or Austria’s Red Bull Ring—both tied up until 2041—but with Domenicali’s public backing, an extension seems likely. If granted, Silverstone’s legacy as the home of British motorsport will only continue to grow.
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