1. Two Names, One Historic Race
The first ever Formula 1 World Championship race, held 75 years ago at Silverstone, carried dual titles. Officially called the Grand Prix d’Europe—a first for a race outside Italy or France—it was also known as the British Grand Prix. Unlike modern seasons that begin in March, this inaugural event occurred on May 13, 1950.
2. Woodcote: The First Turn in F1 History
During the 1950 race, Woodcote was the first corner tackled by drivers—unlike later years when it became the final bend. Drivers then navigated through a total of seven corners including Copse and Becketts. The start line was placed between Abbey and Woodcote, with cars arranged in a 4-3-4 grid pattern.
3. Royal Attendance at Silverstone
Among the estimated 120,000 fans watching the event, the most prestigious attendees were the British Royal Family. King George VI, Queen Elizabeth, and Princess Margaret were present, marking the only time a reigning monarch attended a British motorsport race.
4. Noble Names on the Starting Grid
The race’s entry list was full of aristocratic flair. Competing were Prince Bira of Thailand and Baron Emmanuel de Graffenried of Switzerland. Though talented, both had to retire due to mechanical issues. Bira ran out of fuel, while De Graffenried’s car suffered engine trouble.
5. The Famous ‘Three Fs’
Alfa Romeo fielded three top-tier drivers: Giuseppe Farina, Luigi Fagioli, and Juan Manuel Fangio—each with a surname beginning with “Fa”. These “Three Fs” dominated qualifying and the early part of the race, with Farina ultimately winning after 70 laps. Fangio, however, retired due to engine failure.
6. A Hare Meets a Race Car
In an unusual twist, local wildlife interfered with the action. Reg Parnell’s Alfa Romeo hit a hare during the race, denting the car’s bodywork. Despite this, Parnell finished third, helping Alfa Romeo secure a podium sweep.
7. A Veteran Field of Drivers
Unlike today’s younger grid, the average age at Silverstone in 1950 was 39. Several competitors were in their 40s and 50s, including the race winner Farina, who was 43. The youngest driver, Geoffrey Crossley, was 29—still older than many modern debutants.
8. From Jazz to Grand Prix
Among the drivers was Belgian Johnny Claes, a jazz musician who once led a band called “Johnny Claes and the Clay Pigeons.” Though he qualified last, he managed to finish the race in 11th place—albeit six laps behind the leader.
9. BRM’s Delayed Debut
British team BRM had ambitions to race their new V16 car but faced reliability issues. The car only ran in demonstration laps before the race and wouldn’t compete officially until the following year’s Silverstone event.
10. Stirling Moss Makes an Early Mark
Future F1 star Stirling Moss did not compete in the main race but shined in the support events. He won his heat in the 500cc race and finished second overall after mechanical trouble struck near the end. He also had the memorable experience of meeting King George VI.