British GT News: Home Race Heroics for F1 Drivers
The 2024 Formula 1 calendar is set to feature an impressive 14 drivers competing in their home grand prix races across the 24-event schedule. While all the drivers will be aiming for wins throughout the season, nothing matches the prestige and thrill of claiming victory at one’s home race.
This season’s grid boasts three British drivers – Lewis Hamilton, Lando Norris, and George Russell – all of whom will be targeting podium finishes at the British Grand Prix. In 2023, Norris briefly led the race at Silverstone before being overtaken by Max Verstappen, ultimately finishing second, with Hamilton taking third place.
Elsewhere, Charles Leclerc became the sole driver to secure a home race victory in 2024, clinching his maiden win in the iconic Monaco Grand Prix back in May. The Ferrari driver had previously faced setbacks at the Principality, including a retirement, a non-start, and no podium finishes.
“Looking at the all-time records, Lewis Hamilton stands as the most successful Formula 1 driver at his home grand prix, with an impressive 8 wins and 13 podiums at the British Grand Prix held at Silverstone.”
Hamilton’s first home podium came in his debut season in 2007, and he went on to claim his maiden Silverstone victory the following year.
Alain Prost is next on the list, having secured 6 home race wins in France, across the Dijon-Prenois, Paul Ricard, and Magny-Cours circuits. The Frenchman’s first victory came in 1981, which was also his maiden Formula 1 win.
Legendary Scot Jim Clark and Britain’s own Nigel Mansell both boast 4 home race victories, with Clark’s wins all coming at the British Grand Prix, and Mansell tasting success at both Brands Hatch and Silverstone.
Rounding out the top drivers with the most home race wins are Germany’s Michael Schumacher and Argentina’s Juan Manuel Fangio, each with 4 triumphs at the German and Argentine Grands Prix, respectively.
As the 2024 season progresses, all eyes will be on the British drivers as they strive to add to their home race heroics and etch their names further into the Formula 1 history books.
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