The Tissot Grand Prix of the United Kingdom is back at the iconic Silverstone circuit. This revered venue has been the setting for unforgettable MotoGP moments, hosting some of the most exhilarating Grands Prix. Get comfortable, perhaps grab an umbrella, as we reminisce about the most memorable British GPs at Silverstone.
2011: Stoner Triumphs as Edwards Claims Last MotoGP Podium
The 2011 British GP at Silverstone was a wet affair. Casey Stoner started from pole in his debut year with Honda, flanked by Marco Simoncelli and Jorge Lorenzo on the front row. Lorenzo initially led but was quickly overtaken by Stoner and teammate Andrea Dovizioso. Simoncelli also climbed to P3, but a slip at Turn 1 set him back, allowing him to return only briefly before another crash. In the chaos, Colin Edwards moved up to P3, securing his final MotoGP podium after a long absence due to injury.
2013: Established Star Faces Rookie Sensation
The 2013 season was thrilling for many reasons; Jorge Lorenzo aimed to defend his title, while Casey Stoner’s absence was filled by the impressive rookie Marc Marquez. Silverstone saw an exciting last-lap battle between Lorenzo and Marquez, exchanging positions in crucial corners. Marquez’s attempt to take the lead went awry, allowing Lorenzo to seize victory, which narrowed the championship gap to 30 points.
WATCH: 2013 British GP
2015: Rossi Revives Title Hopes with First Silverstone Victory
In 2015, the tension between Valentino Rossi and Marc Marquez was palpable. Rossi needed a win to stay competitive, especially after a challenging previous race. He hadn’t won the British Grand Prix in a decade, last triumphing in the rain at Donington Park. However, weather favored him, and after an early battle with Marquez—who eventually crashed—Rossi regained his championship lead, marking his last win of the season on British soil.
2016: Viñales Secures First GP Win as Suzuki Returns to Prominence
The following year showcased rising Suzuki performance. After an early incident, the race restarted, with Maverick Viñales taking control after snatching the holeshot. He outpaced early contenders and cemented his position as he claimed his first MotoGP victory, marking Suzuki’s return to the winners’ circle since 2007.
2019: Rins Captures Victory from Marquez in Classic Finish
Silverstone has been a stage for numerous classic races, including the legendary 1977 showdown between Kenny Roberts and Barry Sheene. Recent years have continued this legacy, highlighting a thrilling contest in 2023 where Aleix Espargaro claimed victory against Francesco Bagnaia in the closing moments. With four different winners in the last four races and nine different victors in the last nine British GPs, another spectacular race awaits in Great Britain.
