Selling your classic car? It's FREE to list your car on Honest John Classics | No thanks

Silverstone Classic 2017: Williams to celebrate 40th anniversary

Published 03 July 2017

It’s 25 years since Nigel Mansell won the 1992 British Grand Prix at Silverstone. And also 40 years since Sir Frank Williams formed the Formula One team.

Mansell’s Williams FW14B chassis hasn’t raced since its home win in 1992. However, earlier this year it returned to Silverstone, and has subsequently been fully restored by Williams Heritage, the team’s division which preserves, showcases and runs a fleet of cars dating back to the company’s birth in 1977.

Underlining the growing importance of this dedicated Heritage department, it is headed by Sir Frank’s son Jonathan Williams and managed by long-time Williams team manager and engineer Dickie Stanford.

But Mansell’s machine will not only be on public display at the Silverstone Classic but will also provide visitors with some dramatic high-speed demonstration laps during the lunch breaks on both Saturday and Sunday, with GP2 and sportscar driver Nick Yelloly at the wheel.

Williams’ first grand prix win came at the Northamptonshire venue in 1979, when Swiss driver Clay Regazzoni took the chequered flag. After that, Williams saw success at Silverstone with Mansell, Alain Prost, Damon Hill and Jacques Villeneuve.

The two standout FIA Masters Historic Formula One Race Series showdowns always include a large number of early Williams Formula One cars from the DFV era, while its Renault Lagunas are often to the fore in the pair of JET Super Touring Trophy races.

Tickets to this year’s event must be bought in advance. Adult admission starts at £43 and weekend camping and hospitality upgrades are available.

All tickets provide access to racing paddocks, trackside grandstand seating, live music concerts on both Friday and Saturday evenings featuring the Bootleg Beatles and Tony Hadley formerly of Spandau Ballet, vintage funfair rides, air shows and car club displays as well as a host of other family-friendly demonstrations, activities and entertainment.

Full ticket details and all the latest news are available at silverstoneclassic.com and via the event’s social media platforms.