Before the racing weekend kicked off at England’s Silverstone, a number of F1 dignitaries were invited to 10 Downing Street, the official residence of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Not only drivers and team bosses, but also CEO Stefano Domenicali were in attendance. The celebration in the British Prime Minister’s backyard was in honor of the 75th anniversary of Formula 1, and thus also the British Grand Prix.
This week, Formula 1 returns to the place where it all began 75 years ago: Silverstone. The first race of the Formula 1 Championship, the British Grand Prix, was held at the British circuit on May 13, 1950. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer could not let this anniversary pass unnoticed, and invited drivers, team bosses, and Formula 1 executives to celebrate on Wednesday.
In addition to Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali and Liberty Media CEO Derek Change, drivers Carlos Sainz, Alexander Albon, Oliver Bearman, and Esteban Ocon, and team bosses James Vowles (Williams), Flavio Briatore (Alpine), Andy Cowell (Aston Martin), Jonathan Wheatley (Sauber), and Ayao Komatsu (Haas) were also invited to join the table at 10 Downing Street. Former drivers Jackie Stewart, Damon Hill, Martin Brundle, and Jenson Button were also present.
British Institution
Domenicali thanked the British Prime Minister for hosting the celebration in his backyard. “75 years ago, Formula 1 started here in the United Kingdom at Silverstone in 1950. Since then, it has become a British institution with deep roots and a huge contribution to the country,” the Italian said in his speech. “This is the home of our sport and we want it to remain so, as I know you and your government also plan. I believe we are a fantastic showcase for this country around the world and I look forward to our future together.”
UK Prime Minister’s Speech on the Importance of Formula 1
Starmer himself had prepared a brief speech, in which he emphasized the bond between the United Kingdom and Formula 1. “As Prime Minister, I am truly proud of what Formula 1 does for our country. The global reputation that the United Kingdom derives from it. And that is really important,” said the British Prime Minister. “It is part of the Great Britain brand. Today is not only about celebrating the past 75 years, which I am truly proud of, but also about the future.” Starmer concluded with the promise to continue the collaboration between Formula 1 and Great Britain for a long time to come.
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