Michael Bailey: Formula One comes home to Silverstone’s new look

Three teams still run under a British licence, while another five of the 12 teams have a main base here in the UK – making the travelling for them, for once, a little easier.

Force India are based off a roundabout at the circuit. They will probably be able to roll down a hill straight into the new paddock.

Last year, the circuit’s revamped Arena configuration drew pretty good reviews, while this year will see the use of a new start/finish straight – as well as the dramatic Silverstone Wing: a £28m piece of startling architecture that will dominate the skyline in suitable style.

The new roof totals almost 10,000 square metres, touching 30m high at the tip of the blade – and all ready on time and under budget for the best drivers in the world.