Triple world champion Lewis Hamilton has highlighted the importance of Formula 1 having a British Grand Prix, as Silverstone bosses prepare to make a key decision on the race’s future.
The Northamptonshire circuit, which hosted the first F1 race in 1950, currently has a contract until 2027, however, in that deal the fee for holding the event increases with a break clause available after 2019.
The decision on whether to activate that clause must be made before this year’s British Grand Prix on July 16 and many do expect it will be triggered perhaps with an eye on securing a better deal with new F1 owners Liberty Media.
The uncertainty, however, has led Hamilton, who will look to win his home race for the fourth consecutive year in just over two weeks, to call on all parties to ensure the race remains on the calendar.
“There has got to be something in Britain. It’s the most important race of the year,” the Mercedes driver said.
“In terms of what the points represent, it’s the same as every race, but just being in the beautiful countryside and the support you get from the British fans, it’s an amazing event that people love to come to.”
New F1 CEO Chase Carey has previously signalled a race in the UK is crucial for the sport but hasn’t gone as far as to say it should be at Silverstone, potentially opening the door to a future London Grand Prix which became more plausible after a law was passed meaning motorsport was permitted on the streets of Britain.
The thought of a race not on one of the country’s historic circuits, however, whether it be Silverstone, Brands Hatch or Donington Park, is something else that concerns Hamilton.
“It’s that important part of the British racing heritage and it’s the place where we really get to showcase it,” he said of Silverstone. “The UK is the home of motorsport and we’ve got such great and incredible heritage.”
