Celebrating British Winners at the Silverstone Grand Prix

As Formula 1® returns to its spiritual home this weekend, the atmosphere at Silverstone Circuit is always absolutely electric.

From the very first Formula 1® World Championship Grand Prix held here in 1950, British drivers have etched their names into the history books of Silverstone. Let's take a look at some of the iconic British drivers who have tasted victory at this revered circuit.

Peter Collins (1958)

While the legendary Stirling Moss was the first British driver to win the British Grand Prix (at Aintree in 1955), we had to wait until 1958 for a home victory at Silverstone itself. That honour fell to Peter Collins, driving for Ferrari.

Jim Clark (1963, 1965, 1967)

The 1960s belonged, in many ways, to Jim Clark. This Scottish Legend, known for his silky-smooth driving style and raw talent, dominated the British Grand Prix scene. He secured three of his five British GP victories at Silverstone, showcasing a sublime connection with his Lotus machinery, and he is one of my favourite drivers.

Sir Jackie Stewart (1969, 1971)

One of the nicest people I have ever met, is another Scottish icon, Sir Jackie Stewart, added his name to the Silverstone winners' list. Beyond his three World Championships and pioneering work in F1® safety, Stewart was a formidable competitor on the track. His 1969 victory at Silverstone marked the first of his British Grand Prix successes.

James Hunt (1977):

Six years after Sir Jackie Stewart's second Silverstone triumph, the charismatic and often tabloid front-page star, James Hunt, delivered a truly memorable home victory in 1977. A year after his epic World Championship triumph over Niki Lauda, Hunt, driving for McLaren, recovered from a less-than-ideal start. He ultimately seized the lead and won by a comfortable margin, a classic display of his flamboyant style that absolutely thrilled the adoring crowds.

John Watson (1981)

Northern Irish driver John Watson became the fifth British man to win at Silverstone in the 1981 British Grand Prix. Driving for McLaren, his victory here proved to be a springboard for his most successful season in 1982, where he ultimately finished third in the World Drivers' Championship.

Nigel Mansell (1987, 1991, 1992)

Then there is "Our Nige!" Nigel Mansell is synonymous with Silverstone. The "Lion" delivered some of the most iconic and electrifying victories in British Grand Prix history. His 1987 win saw him famously hunt down Nelson Piquet, breaking the lap record eight times in the final 28 laps before a dramatic pass and an engine-blowing celebration. He followed this with two more spectacular Grand Slams in 1991 and 1992, solidifying his legendary status and sparking "Mansell Mania" across the UK.

Damon Hill (1994): Following in Father's Footsteps

The son of F1® legend Graham Hill, Damon Hill, wrote his chapter at Silverstone in 1994. While the race is often remembered for Michael Schumacher's controversial disqualification, Hill's victory was a significant moment for the home crowd, cementing his place on this illustrious list.

Johnny Herbert (1995):

In an unexpected but hugely popular victory, Johnny Herbert took the top step of the podium in the 1995 British Grand Prix. Amidst a championship tussle between Damon Hill and Michael Schumacher, Herbert, driving for Benetton, seized the opportunity to claim a memorable home win.

David Coulthard (1999, 2000)

The late 90s and early 2000s saw David Coulthard deliver two British Grand Prix victories for McLaren. His wins in 1999 and 2000 were a testament to his consistent speed and strong racecraft, keeping the British flag flying high at the Silverstone circuit.

Sir Lewis Hamilton (2008, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2024)

And then, there is Sir Lewis Hamilton. With an astounding NINE victories, Hamilton holds the outright record for the most wins at his home Grand Prix. From his unforgettable wet-weather masterclass in 2008 to his most recent triumph in 2024.

Each name represents a moment of national pride, etched forever into the history of this remarkable circuit. As we prepare for this year's British Grand Prix.

And as always, when the lights go out and the drama unfolds, here at Senate Grand Prix, there is only one winner, and that's you, the race fans!