Silverstone will host the British GP until 2024
Deal announced ahead of GP McLaren confirms 2020 squad
SILVERSTONE will host the British Grand Prix until at least 2024, under the terms of a new contract announced ahead of the race last week by F1 manavvgement, circuit management and the circuit’s owners, the British Racing Drivers’ Club (BRDC).
In a statement, F1 chairman and CEO Chase Carey said: “If it is to have a longterm future, our sport must preserve its historic venues, and Silverstone and Great Britain represent the cradle of this sport, its starting point back in 1950.
“Our aim is to bring the sport we love to new countries, while also maintaining its roots: Silverstone and the British Grand Prix are an integral part of that vision.”
BRDC chairman John Grant added: “With such a rich heritage [at Silverstone] it would have been disastrous for the sport and fans had we not managed to find a way forward.”
Grant later told the media that ongoing potential for a London Grand Prix had been a concern for Silverstone, but arrangements were now in place to protect the circuit’s race should an event in the capital go ahead.
These are believed to include ensuring that there is sufficient time between the two events. Carey said: “It’s been well reported that we have discussions ongoing in London. We look forward to continuing to have those discussions.”
Elsewhere before last weekend’s British GP, McLaren made an early confirmation of its driver line-up for 2020, announcing that
“It would have been disastrous for the sport had we not managed to find a way forward”
John Grant · BRDC Chairman
it would retain this year’s pairing of Lando Norris and Carlos Sainz for another season.
Team principal Andreas Seidl said: “This provides the team with the continuity to keep pushing forward. The performance of both Carlos and Lando has been a key part of the team’s progress.
“Carlos has played a role in developing the car using his experience, while Lando has got up to speed with the demands of Formula One incredibly quickly and is growing in confidence every weekend.”