World Champion Lewis Hamilton has paid tribute to the Silverstone track and to the British fans ahead of this weekend’s British Grand Prix.
The 24-year-old is returning to the track for the third time in his F1 career but this year stands little chance of being competitive. The contrast to last year, when he produced one of his greatest ever drives to win by a minute in the rain, does not dampen Hamilton’s enthusiasm for racing at home.
“The two greatest things about racing at Silverstone are the fans and the track itself. It s great to see and meet people from all across the country and the world who have made the journey to Silverstone for the Santander British Grand Prix. When I m in the car, I can actually see the fans around the circuit waving banners and cheering. It s as if they were racing every lap with me incredible!†he said.
Ahead of speculation that this year’s event will be the last time the F1 circus visits Silverstone, Hamilton talked about his love affair with the historic Northamptonshire circuit.
“Driving the track is incredible too. I love Silverstone it s an amazing place to drive. Copse, Becketts and Bridge are all absolutely fantastic, flat-out corners that really show you the power and grip of a Formula 1 car. It s a perfect place for the race, so let s hope it s not the last time we race at this track.â€
From 2010 the British Grand Prix will be held at Donington Park, in the event that the facility is ready on time.
