Classic Grand Prix cars set for Silverstone

The biggest-ever grid of Grand Prix greats from the DFV will be a highlight of this year’s Silverstone Classic next month.

Three-litre cars from the careers of legendary drivers like Jackie Stewart, James Hunt, Niki Lauda, Mario Andretti and Emerson Fittipaldi will be on the grid over the weekend of 24-26 July.

Powered by Cosworth’s all-conquering DFV engine, the cars hark back to an era before wind tunnels, hybrids and triathlon-ready racing drivers.

This year, an unprecedented 43 cars from 1966 to 1995 – all still in their period liveries – will take part in the FIA Masters Historic Formula One Championship’s Silverstone grid. Plus, the race has been extended to 25 minutes.

The line-up includes eight Williams from the early Eighties. One of these is the FW07C that Alan Jones took to second place in the 1981 Monaco Grand Prix and is now raced by Paolo Barilla, the one-time Minardi F1 driver and Le Mans 24 Hours winner.

Also on the grid are six Tyrrells, four Marches, trios of Lotuses and Shadows, plus pairs of Brabhams, Ensigns, Fitipaldis and Heskeths. Other renowned constructors include McLaren, Surtees, Penske as well as a 1981 Ligier JS/17 with its V12 Matra engine.

If you’ve never seen the Masters F1 cars in action, you’re missing out on an exciting race, said event director Nick Wigley. Wigley said, ‘Last year’s second race was just incredible with the five leading drivers swapping places throughout.’

Tickets for the 25^th anniversary Silverstone Classic need to be purchased in advance. Adult admission starts from £40 and, as well as pits access, ticket prices include booking fees, parking, infield, grandstands, live music – this year topped by rock legends Status Quo – and the vast majority of the numerous attractions.

Full details – together with hospitality packages and weekend festival camping – can be found on the official website: www.SilverstoneClassic.com.