“Silverstone is not a tight stadium” – The British Grand Prix is expected to be staged with a full house this season, but the venue boss is offering no guarantees.
Silverstone is the most iconic venue in the Formula 1 calendar, with a capacity of around 140,000 crowd for races. Last season, two races took place on this venue – British and the 70th anniversary Grand Prix.
But both the races were without spectators, due to the strict Covid-19 protocols. This time, though, there is a good possibility a full house could happen. All depends on the positive impact of the regulation that fans can return to outdoor sports venues from May 17.
Silverstone boss wants a grand British Grand Prix
Silverstone boss Stuart Pringle confirmed the desire to host a full house for this season’s British Grand Prix. The seats are spread over 3.5 miles, giving them an advantage over facilities of other sports. The venue suffered losses naturally last year, and this move could help them get back on track financially.
“A full crowd is still absolutely on the table. Silverstone is not a tight stadium in the same way that a football stadium is or a tennis court. Our 70,000 grandstand seats are spread out over three-and-a-half miles.
“We have got a lot of space, we are absolutely an outdoor venue, we have a lot of entrances and exits. Anything is possible, but it has also been made clear it is far from guaranteed.”
“It has been extremely difficult. We have had no revenue, but have had all the costs of keeping a 550-acre site licensed, serviceable, and capable of coming back.
“I want the 2021 British Grand Prix to take place with the largest number of fans attending as possible. That is hugely important to Silverstone so we will do whatever it takes to play our part in proving it is safe to do so.
“I see strong pent-up demand for that from the public. They absolutely want to come so we have to create the environment where they are able to do so.”
Also read: Silverstone F1 2021 Tickets: Where to buy tickets for Formula One Silverstone Grand Prix?
