Hamilton and Vettel react to Silverstone deal

Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel are both delighted that Silverstone has struck a deal with F1 to extend their stay on the F1 calendar, with both describing the track as the “home” of F1.

Due to the high costs of hosting the British Grand Prix, Silverstone was in danger of being dropped from the race schedule, but after long negotiations it was confirmed this week that Liberty Media and track management had reached an agreement for a new, extended contract.

Hamilton reckons F1 can’t exist without the British GP at Silverstone.

"It was a good surprise to hear that they had re-signed, [although] it wasn't necessarily a surprise as I spoke to you guys [the media] before I knew that it was going to happen," said the Mercedes driver.

"It's clear that Formula 1 can't exist without the home of motorsport, which is the British Grand Prix.

"Really, really happy - it's great for the fanbase and for that to continuously grow over the next years to come."

Vettel concurs with his F1 colleague, and has revealed that every driver enjoys racing on the Silverstone track.

"It's good news," said the German.

"It's the home of motor racing so we have to come here. I'm quite happy we stay here and don't try something fancy.

"This is a great track, every driver likes it, the fans come here every year in big amounts so there's nothing wrong with it.

"I hope they negotiated a good deal and squeezed a lot out of Liberty [Media, F1's commercial rights holder]."

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