Silverstone, the venue for Grand Prix races for many years, prepares to say farewell to the sport, this weekend. The windswept former World War II airfield hosted Formula One’s first Grand Prix in 1950. It has almost been like home to many of the racing stalwarts like Nigel Mansell, Damon Hill, and Lewis Hamilton. 

The British grand prix is scheduled to move north to Donington Park next year. But, many are sceptical about the track getting ready by next year and whether Silverstone has reached the end at all. F1 supremo, Bernie Ecclestone, said that there is no going back to Silverstone irrespective of what happens with Donington.

The grand prix circuit is owned by British Racing Drivers’ Club (BRDC), a non-profit organisation. Bernie has been against the track in recent years, considering lavish new tracks are coming up in different places. F1 is expanding to new and lucrative markets in Asia.

Montreal and Magny-Cours (France) bid farewell this year. But, Silverstone’s loss will be missed by many. Rubens Barrichello of Brazil has said that Silverstone is a fast and safe circuit and the fact that the circuit will be off the calendar next year is hurting him. Rubens had won here in 2003 with Ferrari. Hamilton was the victor last year, but Jenson Button, chasing his seventh win in eight races will be the favourite among the crowd.

Giuseppe Farina of Italy had won the first F1 championship grand prix for Alfa Romeo in 1950.