Maintaining a Race Track

Ever wondered what it takes to maintain a race track that is used for one of the biggest races on the calendar? We use the out of season time to take a sneak peak behind the curtain to show just what it takes to maintain and improve the home of British motorsport.

Silverstone Circuit is one of the world’s most iconic and historic race tracks, playing host to some of the biggest and most exciting events in motorsports history. Maintaining a circuit of this calibre is a constant challenge, requiring a combination of technical expertise, attention to detail and a commitment to preserving the track’s heritage and character. We take a closer look at the process of maintaining Silverstone Circuit and the various factors that go into ensuring that it remains in top condition, and meets FIA standards, year-round. From surface preparation and track maintenance to safety and infrastructure upgrades, we’ll explore what it takes to keep this legendary circuit in racing shape.

We start on the Hamilton Straight, the start and finish line of the international circuit, where all the action from the 2022 Formula 1 British Grand Prix got underway with a huge shock at the race start. Zhou Guanyu crashed, driving the Alfa Romeo and took a dramatic roll sliding into the gravel before flipping over again into the barrier, causing a red flag that stopped the race on the first lap. This part of the track has seen a dramatic change in 2023 as a section of the gravel trap has been removed and in its place is fresh tarmac. We joined the team as they worked to lay the final layer in the cold January air. Working against the clock, the team efficiently laid the tarmac with speed and precision, reminiscent of a pit crew in action. The process ran like a well-oiled machine, with the sweepers finishing as the truck delivered the tarmac, which was loaded straight into the pavers to begin pouring. Once the paver started, it didn’t stop and travelled up and down the area, followed only by a huge roller that provides the flawless finish.

“Each of us as a specific task to complete, and they usually occur at the same time. It’s a delicate balance of coordination and delivery,” said the Foreman of the team.

One member of the team told us that laying a piece of tarmac for a Formula 1 car to drive on in the near future felt extremely rewarding and prestigious, but it also instilled a sense of responsibility that drove the whole team to deliver their best work.

Maintaining the track also involves upgrading fan access by improving viewing areas, preserving grandstands and creating new spots to enjoy the races from. The newly expanded viewing area around Becketts and Chapel is set to become a favourite among fans, offering a breath-taking view of the fast and famous sweeping turns of Maggotts and Becketts.

When it comes to maintaining a venue of this status, Circuit Manager Lee Howkins says “it doesn’t matter if it’s Formula 1 or a corporate retail day. Every aspect of the circuit, from the debris fences to the kerbing and the track itself all have to meet the highest standards at all time.”