The wraps came off the races, celebratory plans and motoring displays that make up the extravaganza of the Silverstone Classic Rocking and Racing meeting to be held at the UK’s premier racing circuit on the last weekend of July (26-28). At the recent media day attended by a record number of journalists, organizers have billed the event as the world’s biggest classic racing festival. They also boast overflowing grids, record numbers of car clubs attending, increased advanced ticket sales and a need to extend the shopping village due to an unprecedented demand for retail space.
In his address to the assembled media at the Silverstone Wing, event director Nick Wigley (left) said, “It’s always hard to beat the previous year, but the event is just so welcoming for families and people of all ages, and judging by the success of today the Classic just seems to be growing and growing.”
Celebrity drivers present at the media day included ex-Grand Prix drivers David Coulthard and Tiff Needell, together with former touring car drivers, Patrick Watts, Tim Harvey and Andy Priaulx. Coulthard was on hand to drive the Lotus 25 that Jim Clark took to the F1 World Championship some 50 years ago this year. Fellow Scot Coulthard enthused about his experience: “To drive the ’63 championship-winning Lotus was a real honor—Jim Clark is a true racing legend and a hero of mine. I have driven many cars, but I feel even more nostalgic driving this one, which was the car in which he won the first of his two World Championships. The car is immaculately prepared and even some of the original mechanics were here—it’s a great story, but also a real shame that Jimmy can’t be here to see it.” The 13-time Grand Prix winner also commented about the event itself: “The Silverstone Classic is a great event. This is the biggest participation motor sport event in the world, and that tells you all you need to know. People are here because they’re passionate about motor sport and its history.”
For full details of the Silverstone Classic, including admission details please visit:
www.silverstoneclassic.com
