Williams rookie George Russell says there is “no way” he could envisage a Formula 1 calendar that does not feature the British Grand Prix at Silverstone.
Silverstone, which hosted the inaugural world championship event in 1950, has been a mainstay as the home of the British Grand Prix since 1987.
The event’s current contract expires following next month’s grand prix but it is anticipated that a new agreement will be reached with Liberty Media.
“It’s definitely very important Silverstone stays on the calendar,” says Russell.
“Not because of me, or because it’s British, just purely because it’s an amazing track, and it’ll be thoroughly missed as a driver.
“For me it’s probably the best on the calendar and I think half the drivers would say the same.
“The fans are always incredible, always an amazing atmosphere. You feel like you’re at the home of racing when you’re there, and it’s special.
“The more experienced drivers can talk more than I can that we go to places with great tracks but don’t have the history, or fan culture, or racing DNA.
“You probably see it yourself, it’s a different feeling when you go from Silverstone to… I won’t mention a circuit but you can probably guess the ones I’m talking about, it’s a different vibe.
“In my opinion there’s no way Formula 1 could go without Silverstone on its calendar.”
While Russell’s home event is thought likely to stay beyond 2019, McLaren youngster Carlos Sainz Jr. may have raced on home turf for the final time, with Barcelona out of contract.
The Spanish Grand Prix is one of five events without a signed 2020 contract and is understood to be the likeliest to drop from the schedule.
“I’m worried because I don’t like losing my home Grand Prix and I think it’s a big loss, not only for Spanish people but for Formula 1,” says Sainz Jr.
“I think Barcelona has been part of the calendar for many years, it’s a great track, great venue and everyone enjoys being there.
“I consider now that it’s one of the classical tracks, like I consider Silverstone or Spa, so losing Barcelona is a big loss for Formula 1, I think, and myself.”
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