Jenson Button: is a difficult game

Lewis Hamilton is relishing the opportunity to win a second British Grand Prix next week, while compatriots Jenson Button, Paul di Resta and rookie Max Chilton are determined to savour the unique Silverstone experience.

 Great Britain's drivers (left to right) Lewis Hamilton, Max Chilton, Paul Di Resta and Jenson Button

Hamilton was victorious in the 2008 race with McLaren before going on to win his only Formula One world championship so far.

He has endured mixed fortunes at his home grand prix since then, however, with just one podium place in four attempts and has yet to record a race win in his first season with the Brackley-based Mercedes team.

While he played down his chances of victory on June 30 after the Canadian Grand Prix, Hamilton is perhaps realistically the only Briton likely to challenge for top spot.

And the 28-year-old hopes the backing of home fans will give him an added boost in the eighth round of the season.

“Winning the British Grand Prix in 2008 was an incredible moment for me. I’ve been aiming to repeat it every year since and I’d love to win my second race at Silverstone,” he said at a photoshoot for the four British drivers at Silverstone.

“Silverstone is so special for the British drivers and the weekend is made by the amazing support from our home fans.

“The atmosphere, the flags flying around the circuit and just seeing everyone supporting us really does lift you.”

Former team-mate Button has endured a frustrating season with McLaren thus far, with a highest position of fifth in the opening seven races.

Any hopes of claiming a second world championship have long since subsided, but like Hamilton, Button is looking forward to the home comforts that Silverstone affords him.

“The British Grand Prix is one of the very best grands prix on the calendar - and Silverstone is absolutely unique,” he said.

“Firstly, it’s one of the greatest circuits in the world. It’s also a track with such great historical significance - it’s where the first-ever world championship Formula One race was held.

“Obviously, as a British driver, I’m particularly grateful for the support I’ve received over the years. I hope I can put on a great show for the fans this year.”

 

Di Resta will be competing at the event for the third time with the Silverstone-based Force India and was quick to hail his previous experiences.

“For me it’s the biggest event we go to, especially in terms of support from the British fans, which is always amazing,” said the Scot.

“The atmosphere is electric and I remember last year the drivers’ parade was one of the highlights of the year - it really sent a shiver through me because of the reaction we received and the fact that there wasn’t a seat left in the place.”

Chilton, in his debut season with Marussia, is champing at the bit ahead of his maiden F1 race at Silverstone.

“The first British Grand Prix of my F1 career is going to be incredibly special for me, without a doubt,” he said.

“Every race so far in my debut season has been a fantastic learning experience and I’m sure the same will be true of Silverstone, but with additional support from the super-enthusiastic fans of all four British drivers.”