This weekend, Lando Norris is keen for his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri to receive a warm welcome from the Silverstone crowd during the British Grand Prix, as both drivers challenge for the Drivers’ Championship.
With a mere 15 points separating the two, the rivalry intensifies after Norris recently triumphed over Piastri in the Austrian Grand Prix. The upcoming race at the iconic Silverstone Circuit promises to be a pivotal moment for both competitors.
In a remarkable milestone, Norris will celebrate his home race with the debut of the ‘Landostand,’ a dedicated grandstand at Stowe corner, accommodating 10,000 fans cheering him on.
In light of their close standings, Piastri was questioned during a post-race press conference about the potential for an unwelcoming reception from Norris’ loyal fans. Norris quickly expressed hope that such negativity wouldn’t manifest, adding:
“The British fans are typically supportive of us as McLaren drivers. My hope is that everyone will come together to celebrate the sport.”
Piastri, who joined McLaren in 2023, reflected on his experiences with Silverstone’s fans, recalling moments of unexpected support in previous years. He remarked:
“A couple of years back, it was a surprise to hear them chant my name. They’ve usually been supportive overall.”
He added, “Naturally, the crowd may lean more towards cheering for Lando, especially since it’s his home turf.”
Silverstone’s Managing Director, Stuart Pringle, resonates with this sentiment, asserting his confidence in the fans’ appreciation for competitive racing. He stated:
“Everyone at Silverstone loves a thrilling contest, and the camaraderie among these teammates only heightens the excitement.”
‘A Race of Great Importance’
Norris is poised as a favorite to clinch victory at Silverstone, having previously secured podium finishes in the past two seasons. Last year, however, his ambitions were thwarted by strategic missteps amid unpredictable weather.
As he gears up for the much-anticipated 2025 British Grand Prix—his seventh overall—Norris expressed his enthusiasm:
“This event is the highlight of my year. I have my own grandstand now, which adds to the excitement.”
He also noted, “While the pressure to win is undeniable, it motivates me more than it weighs me down.”
2025 British Grand Prix Schedule on Sky Sports F1
Thursday, July 3
2 PM: Drivers’ Press Conference
6 PM: The F1 Show Special
Friday, July 4
8:45 AM: F3 Practice
9:55 AM: F2 Practice
12 PM: British GP Practice One (session starts at 12:30 PM)
Saturday, July 5
9:10 AM: F3 Sprint
11:15 AM: British GP Practice Three (session starts at 11:30 AM)
1:10 PM: F2 Sprint
3 PM: BRITISH GP QUALIFYING*
Sunday, July 6
3 PM: THE BRITISH GRAND PRIX*
*Available on Sky Sports Main Event
Don’t miss the thrilling action at Silverstone in the 2025 Formula 1 season—live on Sky Sports F1 and Sky Showcase from Thursday leading up to the eagerly awaited race on Sunday at 3 PM.