8 Rosberg’s record lap

Despite the chicane that had been added at Woodcote following the 1973 accident (below), average speeds had risen to the point where all eyes were on the 160mph barrier at the 1985 British Grand Prix. During Friday’s first qualifying session, the Williams of Keke Rosberg got closest, the Finn claiming provisional pole at 159.668mph.

Although the track was dry on Saturday afternoon, the weather looked ominous. After everyone had taken their first runs, Rosberg was again quickest but a fraction short of the magic number. Then there was a rain shower, and that seemed to be that, but with just over 20 minutes remaining the sun reappeared and out they went again. At the very end of the session, Rosberg flashed across the line to stop the clocks at 1 min 5.591 secs – 160.925mph.

Anorak fact Not only were there still damp patches at Becketts and Stowe, but Rosberg’s car was also later found to have a slow puncture…