Nine-times world champion Valentino Rossi was on hand yesterday to join John Surtees, Cal Crutchlow, Jonathan Rea, James Toseland a whole host of other racers to open the new Silverstone wing.
His Royal Highness the Duke of Kent, KG, who is also President in Chief of the BRDC, formally opened the new building that represents the second stage of a multi-million pound investment in the Home of British Motor Racing and heralds an exciting new era for British motor sport.
The ‘show’ element of the opening ceremony culminated with a focus on the present and future of Silverstone, which was represented by three current greats of world motor sport. Britain’s most recent Formula One World Champion, Jenson Button, was joined on stage by nine-time World Champion Valentino Rossi, before 2010 Formula 1 British Grand Prix winner Mark Webber brought things to a close by driving his Red Bull Racing Formula One car into The Wing and coming to a stop in the middle of the room.
“Today was a very important day in the history of the British Racing Drivers’ Club and Silverstone Circuit”, commented Damon Hill. “The official opening of the Silverstone Wing represents the culmination of many years hard work and gives a clear statement of intent for the future. We are honoured that our President in Chief, His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent, KG generously agreed to perform the opening ceremony.
“Over the last sixty years, under the stewardship of the BRDC, Silverstone has grown beyond all recognition. Silverstone has a significant historical legacy, but we maintain our place at the forefront of contemporary international motor sport, hosting an array of world class events and activities. This is in no small measure because British competitors have consistently led the way at the highest level of global motor sport for over eighty years.
“The BRDC is extremely proud of this new building, but we acknowledge that none of it would have been possible without our superb and exceptional Silverstone team. Silverstone is a cornerstone of our industry and the BRDC will continue to develop the circuit to ensure that Britain has a world class home for motor sport and related technology.”
