Silverstone Festival is set to mark 75 years of Formula 1 in spectacular style. This summer, the historic circuit will host a world-record grid of 500cc Formula 3 cars. The event will recreate the excitement of the 1950 British Grand Prix. With 64 entries and a full-capacity 54-car grid for Sunday’s anniversary race, this celebration promises to be an unforgettable highlight for motorsport fans.
The Return of the 500cc F3 Cars
In 1950, Silverstone hosted the inaugural FIA Formula 1 World Championship race. Supporting the event was a thrilling contest between 500cc Formula 3 cars. These small, lightweight machines were powered by half-litre motorcycle engines. They gave post-war racing enthusiasts an affordable way to compete on disused airfields, setting the stage for modern single-seater racing.
Now, 75 years later, these pioneering machines are back. Enthusiasts at Silverstone Festival can witness entries pouring in from 10 countries, representing 24 manufacturers. Rare models such as the Dutch-built Larkens, the Petty, and the one-of-a-kind Jason will be represented. Among them is a historic Cooper T12 – the first rear-engined car to compete in an F1 Grand Prix – now restored to its original 500cc configuration.
A Historic Showdown on Track
The Silverstone Festival’s anniversary race will see some of the most iconic 500cc F3 cars battle once again. Cooper, a dominant force in the original era, will be well represented, with nearly every model from Mk IV to Mk XIII taking part. The grid will also feature legendary names like Emeryson, JBS, Kieft, and two Iota P1s. These were cars in which Wing Commander Frank Aikens dramatically snatched victory from a young Stirling Moss at Silverstone in 1950.
Nigel Challis, Chairman of the 500 Club, expressed his excitement: “This 75th-anniversary race has generated an unbelievable response, making the Silverstone Festival spectacular. It will be a fantastic spectacle for both drivers and fans.”
Celebrating 75 Years of Formula 1
Beyond the thrilling 500cc F3 showdown, the Silverstone Festival will celebrate F1’s legacy in other remarkable ways. The World Champions Collection will bring together cars raced by all 34 Formula 1 Drivers’ World Champions. This will be a first in motorsport history.
Adding to the nostalgia, the racing programme includes Masters Racing Legends. This features F1 cars from the legendary 1966–1985 DFV era. There will also be the return of the much-loved Group C sportscars, famous for their Le Mans heroics.
Event Director Nick Wigley shared his enthusiasm: “We will be celebrating 75 years of Formula 1 in many great ways at Silverstone Festival this year. The extraordinary gathering of 500cc F3 cars will be a true highlight. It will deliver an unforgettable experience for all attendees.”
More Than Just Racing
The Silverstone Festival offers a full weekend of entertainment for all ages, including:
- Open access to both racing paddocks
- Trackside grandstands with excellent views
- Three nights of live music featuring Natasha Bedingfield, Craig David presents TS5, and Ministry of Sound Classical
- Vintage funfair rides, stunt shows, and family-friendly attractions
All tickets grant entry to these experiences. Additionally, children aged 15 and under can attend for free with an accompanying adult.
Join the Celebration
With record-breaking grids, legendary race cars, and world-class entertainment, the Silverstone Festival this year is a must-attend event for any motorsport enthusiast. Will you be there to witness history in the making?
Which classic F1 moment do you wish you could have seen in person? Let us know in the comments.
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