Silverstone - Shaping up nicely

It's mid-July, which means the Grand Prix circus arrives in town.

The British Grand Prix is one of the oldest on the F1 Championship calendar, and one of the most controversial (from Bernie Ecclestone's point of view)!  It has been held at Silverstone (near Towcester in Northamptonshire) continuously since 1987.

In 2008 Silverstone lost the rights to stage the race, however, due to financial problems, Donington Park failed to have their circuit ready, and Silverstone re-negotiated a 17 year deal to host the Grand Prix from 2010.

This new contract means that major upgrades will have to take place at the circuit, to bring it up ti the standards expected by Bernie and the teams.  This year will see the introduction of a revision to the track layout, now called the Arena circuit.

With more twists and turns, and long straights, the new layout is 3.666 miles long. The new section cuts into the centre of the circuit, introducing Farm Curve, The Loop, Village Corner, Aintree Corner and Wellington Straight.

I've been to the British Grand Prix for the last few years, unfortunately, this year I won't be there, which is a shame for two reasons:
Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button.

Lewis won the British Grand Prix in 2008 (last year was won by Sebastien Vettel).

Jenson has yet to record a win at home.  Both of them will be aiming for the top step of the podium.

The home race, for the most recent World Champions, promises to be a humdinger!!  McLaren have said that the latest upgrades for their cars will be available to their drivers, but it is up to the individual to decide if they want to race with them!! Wow! No pressure then!

Red Bull will be on the charge again, on a circuit that is well-suited to their car, and also with Mark Webber keen to score something after his crash two weeks ago.  Fernando Alonso, in his Ferrari, will also be looking for retribution following his verbal spat with Lewis Hamilton.

Finally - let's not forget the bet I have for Jenson to win 5 or more races this year, and for McLaren to win the Constructor Championship.  Since they have won the most times at Silverstone (14 times) joint with Ferrari; they have a good chance. I'll have everything crossed.... hope you will too!

All in all, it is shaping up to be an exciting weekend.