Built in 1943, the Silverstone circuit was nothing like the one we know today. And for good reason. Originally, the site was simply a Royal Air Force airbase, constructed during World War II. At the end of the conflict, the airbase lost its purpose and, in 1948, became a motor racing circuit organized by the Royal Automobile Club, in agreement with the British Army.
With its 18 turns, 8 left and 10 right, over a distance of 5.891 km, this England-based track is a benchmark in motorsport. Spread across the counties of Northamptonshire and Buckinghamshire, it is strategically located between the cities of Milton Keynes, Northampton, and Oxford.
Highly appreciated by both drivers and fans for its fast and challenging sequences, the layout is one of the rare circuits that has gained character while being modernized.
The Evolution of the Silverstone Circuit
In its 81 years of existence, the Silverstone circuit has evolved considerably with the most recent changes taking place in 2011. Fourteen years later, the configuration remains unchanged.
In 2010, the Grand Prix circuit was modified at certain corners, and then in 2011, the pit lane was moved to the southern part of the track, between the Club and Abbey corners, following the construction of the new pit building called the Silverstone Wing. The circuit therefore has two pit lanes: the new one and the old one, which is retained to host the support races for the Grand Prix.
An exciting race awaits all entrants of the ELMS Championship, which you can follow on the IDEC SPORT platforms.
