- Record 159,006 attendance over three days
A record crowd of 73,456 was at Silverstone on Sunday for a sensational 2013 Hertz British Grand Prix. British rider Scott Redding won his Moto2 race in front of the passionate home crowd, while reigning World Champion Jorge Lorenzo claimed victory in the headline MotoGP race, after a breathtaking battle with championship leader Marc Marquez.
Following bumper attendances of 53,250 for Qualifying on Saturday and 32,300 for Practice on Friday, the 159,006 three-day crowd was the highest in almost 20 years and a record in the MotoGP era.
Britains Cal Crutchlow and Bradley Smith finished seventh and ninth respectively in MotoGP; Crutchlow racing with a badly injured arm after a heavy fall on Saturday.
Richard Phillips, Managing Director of Silverstone Circuits Limited, said: Weve seen record crowds over the three days here at Silverstone and have been treated to some sensational racing. Scott Redding rode a phenomenal race to win in Moto2 and it was fantastic to see a British rider on the top step of the podium. The MotoGP race was also a real thriller between Lorenzo and Marquez. Weve had fantastic weather and the fans support has been tremendous all weekend. Theyve really played their part in making this years British Grand Prix one of the best in years.
Race winner Scott Redding, who extended his lead at the top of the Moto2 World Championship, said: I couldnt have asked for a better day than today; quickest in Warm Up, led 90% of the race and then went on to get the victory in front of my home crowd. Ive had an amazing reception here this weekend and Ive enjoyed every second of it. Im pleased to have signed the MotoGP deal and for that to be out there, but firstly I need to try and wrap up this years World Title.
Marking 10 years since the passing of the late, great Barry Sheene, Silverstone also hosted a well-received Tribute Parade to honour one of Britains most popular and successful motorcycle racers. Taking place between the Moto2 and MotoGP races on Sunday, the Parade featured several of Barrys family, former teammates and rivals, riding a selection of the bikes that the two-time World Champion rode during an illustrious career.
The riders included Sheene's son Freddie, brother-in-law Paul Smart, nephew Scott Smart, former teammate Steve Parrish, Niall MacKenzie and his son, Taylor MacKenzie. Friend and on-track rival, Randy Mamola, also supported the tribute, as did Barrys daughter, Sidonie Sheene.
Tickets for the 2014 British Grand Prix are now on sale at advance prices, via www.silverstone.co.uk.
