Lewis equals record as he storms to pole

biggest weekend of the year. Fans and everyone else don’t need to be a part of that, it doesn’t need to muddy the waters.

“Because, a little bit like Scottish independence and a little bit like Brexit, giving people half of the information or less and letting them take sides is irresponsible.”

Negotiation

The BRDC, who own Silverstone, confirmed a fortnight ago that they planned to activate a break clause in their contract with F1 owners Liberty Media before Friday’s deadline.

They did so on Tuesday, meaning the 2019 grand prix will be the last at the circuit unless a new agreement can be reached. Coulthard is still hopeful that the two parties can thrash out terms on a new deal, but he knows there can be no room for emotion when the final decisions are made.

He said: “If they can agree terms the British GP will be at Silverstone in 2020. But it they can’t, then we won’t have a British GP or maybe it will be at Donington Park or Brands Hatch.

“As a fan of the sport, I cannot imagine not having a British Grand Prix and I cannot imagine not having it at a Silverstone, which I truly believe is a world-class venue.

“The reality is that this is a negotiation point, in terms of hosting the grand prix under new terms, going forward.”

DANIEL RICCIARDO fears that the “shoey”, a podium ritual dreaded by rival drivers and loved by F1 fans, may be getting out of control.

The Australian Red Bull driver’s signature celebration involves the pouring of champagne into a sweaty racing boot, which an unlucky victim is urged to share.

But in Azerbaijan and Austria, they were instigated more by podium interviewers. Ricciardo said: “It’s been fun but I want to say it’s run its course.”