Formula 1 fans from around the world have become part of a record-breaking British Grand Prix.
Organisers said a total of about 564,000 spectators were in attendance over the Silverstone race weekend – an increase of about 64,000 on last year’s record.
Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli is on pole position for the race, which starts at 15:00 BST, with live commentary available on BBC Sounds.
So, what is it that sets the circuit, on the Northamptonshire and Buckinghamshire border, ahead of the rest in the minds of motorsport fans?
The answer is found in the track’s famous high-speed corners – acclaimed by generations of drivers – and a rich racing heritage.
Indeed, back in 1950, Silverstone hosted the first Formula 1 World Championship Grand Prix.
It is that history that lures fans not only from Britain, but from across the globe.
‘I love F1’
Guillermo and his children have travelled from the city of Nogales in northern Mexico to experience the event’s famous atmosphere.
The trip is a special occasion for his 14-year-old daughter Rebecca, celebrating her Quinceañera – the traditional Mexican celebration of a girl’s 15th birthday.
“It [Silverstone] is very comfortable,” she said. “Everything is happy. The people are very good and welcoming.”
Rebecca’s older brother, named Guillermo after his father, said he would fly his country’s flag at Sunday’s race for Mexican driver Sergio Perez – but said he would also support a British driver.
“I wish [Lewis] Hamilton to get first place,” said the 16-year-old. “We’re loving the racing, loving Silverstone. It’s pretty nice. I love F1.”
Another international fan, Oscar Solimano, has travelled from Argentina to attend the event.
The 33-year-old said he and 10 others would offer their support to Argentine Franco Colapinto, a driver for the Alpine team.
“We came over on Wednesday, we’re staying at a house in Oxford and have had this planned for months.
“We are big petrolheads, that’s why we’re here.
“It [Silverstone] is incredible, it’s one of those places that you say ‘hey, there’s a true petrolhead passion here’.
“It’s not like other circuits we’ve been to, here you breathe cars and motorsport.”
Ticket prices for the event vary by type, but Sunday’s Grand Prix started from £229, with three-day general admission from £269.
Charlie Bingham, 51, who was born in the UK but lives in Texas, said it was “a bit of a splurge” to attend with his wife and children but added it was “great to be here”.
He said: “My wife and I made it our 50th birthday present to one another.
“The kids have got into it in the last couple of years, this is the home of Grand Prix, so why not? We get to see friends and family while we’re back too.”
It is a family affair for others, too.
Father and son Stuart and Ross came to the 2025 race and are back for more with tickets in the Hangar grandstand.
“It’s just the whole scale of the event,” said 52-year-old Stuart. “It’s bigger than just a race. There’s something for everyone.”
David Guetta and Richard Ashcroft have been among the headline music acts, while Jack Whitehall was part of its stand-up comedy offering.
McLaren fan Ross, 21, expects Antonelli to take victory in the race but retained hope for home favourites.
“I think the Mercedes look like they’re going to do it,” he said. “It would be nice to see Hamilton up there if possible. Lando [Norris] as well. An all-British podium ideally.”
The 77th edition of the British Grand Prix is also attracting new fans.
Liz Williams, 70, is at her first Formula 1 race – a decision sparked by her grandchildren’s interest in the sport.
Williams, from Aberystwyth, said Saturday’s sprint race was a thrill.
“It was really exciting when they were all overtaking one another on the corner where we were.
“[There are] lots of people cheering different drivers, but it’s all very friendly. Nobody’s fighting or pushing people over like you get in some sports.”
Tens of thousands of fans camp at the circuit for the duration of the event, with some having arrived as early as Wednesday.
Colin Lawson, from Aberdeen, is staying at the Whittlebury Park campsite with friends and family in his RV.
“It’s my happy place,” said the 59-year-old. “I love it because it’s British. It’s a gathering.
“We’ve had a journey to get here but it’s all about fun. Silverstone is probably the pinnacle of the year.”
Additional reporting by Tom Williams.
Do you have a story suggestion for Northamptonshire? Contact us below.
Follow Northamptonshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.
Related to this story
- Antonelli beats Leclerc & Hamilton to Silverstone pole
- Antonelli passes Hamilton to win Silverstone sprint
- British Grand Prix more than a race – circuit boss
- How to follow the British Grand Prix on the BBC
