Silverstone has received a major vote of confidence ahead of this weekend’s British Grand Prix, with Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali making it clear that he sees the iconic circuit as a permanent fixture on the championship calendar.
The historic British venue is reportedly set to begin discussions over a new long-term agreement that could guarantee its place in Formula 1 well into the future, reinforcing its status as one of the sport’s most important and symbolic destinations.
Stefano Domenicali wants Silverstone to remain on the Formula 1 calendar permanently
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Stefano Domenicali expressed complete confidence in Silverstone’s future and confirmed that he is ready to discuss a long-term arrangement with the circuit’s promoters.
“I am ready to discuss it. It is simply a matter of sitting down together and finding the right conditions. Silverstone deserves to remain on the calendar. It is forever. There is no other venue in the United Kingdom, neither Brands Hatch nor Donington, that has the capacity required for Formula 1. We have simply become too big,” said the Formula 1 CEO.
Stefano Domenicali also praised the circuit for successfully managing the enormous crowds that now attend the British Grand Prix, describing the logistical challenges created by such demand as “a good problem to have.”
However, he stressed that Silverstone cannot rely solely on its rich history and legendary status. Instead, he believes the venue must continue improving the overall fan experience every season to meet the constantly evolving standards of modern Formula 1.
“That does not mean Silverstone should stop trying to improve the quality of its offering every year. That is what Formula 1 is about. They cannot simply rely on their heritage, but in recent years they have understood the importance of delivering the best possible product for the fans,” he added.
Stefano Domenicali concluded his praise with a heartfelt tribute to the atmosphere generated by the British Grand Prix.
“It is one of the most incredible places to experience the passion for motorsport. It gives you goosebumps, regardless of the passport you hold.”
Silverstone set to welcome a record-breaking crowd
This year’s British Grand Prix is expected to set a new attendance record for a Formula 1 weekend. Organisers are forecasting approximately 565,000 spectators across the four-day event, surpassing the previous all-time record by around 45,000 fans.
Sunday’s race alone is expected to attract 175,000 spectators, making it the largest single-day attendance in the circuit’s history. The impressive figures reflect both Formula 1’s continued global growth and the strong performances of British drivers in recent seasons, which have helped fuel unprecedented interest in the event.
London street race ruled out
During the same interview, Stefano Domenicali also dismissed the possibility of Formula 1 hosting a street race in London.
According to the Italian executive, such a project is simply not practical, reinforcing his belief that Silverstone remains the natural home of Formula 1 in the United Kingdom. His comments underline the circuit’s unique combination of history, infrastructure, organisational experience and passionate fan support, qualities that continue to make Silverstone one of the championship’s flagship venues.
At the same time, Domenicali encouraged the organisers to continue investing in the facility to ensure it remains capable of meeting Formula 1’s increasingly demanding standards.
A circuit that helped shape Formula 1 history
Silverstone occupies a unique place in Formula 1 history. The circuit hosted the inaugural Formula 1 World Championship Grand Prix in 1950 and, after alternating with Aintree and Brands Hatch during the early decades of the championship, has served as the permanent home of the British Grand Prix since 1987.
In 2024, Silverstone secured its long-term future by signing a 10-year agreement worth approximately £300 million, bringing an end to the shorter contracts that had become common during Bernie Ecclestone’s era.
The circuit’s international profile is set to grow even further next year. Beginning in April, Silverstone will once again become part of the FIA World Endurance Championship calendar, welcoming the return of the prestigious 6 Hours of Silverstone and further strengthening its reputation as one of the world’s premier motorsport venues.
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