They may be strapped into GP Masters single-seaters rather than Formula One Cars, but that will not diminish the determination and will to take the chequered flag.
After a couple of days of practice at the famous circuit the drivers will be jockeying for positions on the grid in qualifying this lunchtime.
Said former Formula One world champion Nigel Mansell: ‘First and foremost the competitiveness has never changed and certainly hasn’t diminished.
It is the same as it has always been and in some cases the competitiveness between certain individuals is even greater! ‘Silverstone is one of the most historic Grand Prix circuits in the world and to be racing there for any of us will be a very special occasion.
We have upwards of 700 horse power in what are equal cars with electronic aids being kept to a minimum.
‘While the primary objective here is fun, entertainment and unprecedented access for race fans, the preparation, commitment and desire to win will be no less to what we witnessed in South Africa and Qatar.
In fact, the desire to win this one will be even greater amongst us all!’ Veteran commentator Murray Walker added: ‘Being back with my mates like Nigel Mansell, Derek Warwick, Riccardo Patrese, Rene Arnoux, Emerson Fittipaldi and Stefan Johansson about whom I must have spoken tens of thousands of excited words as they fought for supremacy at Silverstone, which is so spectacular and which the drivers love so much, is very special indeed for me.
‘Having seen the Masters in action at Kyalami in South Africa and the searing heat of Qatar I know that they’ll all be taking their return to Silverstone very seriously indeed and that the cars are second only to Formula One’s projectiles in terms of performance.
‘I’ve gone through the roof so many times at Silverstone over the exploits of Nigel Mansell and he’ll be out to fire me up again but can he make it three wins in a row? Not if the others can stop him and, believe me, they’ll all be determined to do so!’ And it is not just ex Formula One Jersey residents who are in action at Silverstone this weekend, Old Victorian James Walker – who hopes to make it into F1 in the future, comeptes in two races in the British Formula Three Championship tomorrow as well.
The GP Masters race is being shown live on Sky Sports 2 tomorrow, the programme starts at 12.30 pm with the race getting underway at 1 pm.
Qualifying is also being shown, at 5 pm today.
