Breeding a racing culture

Silverstone circuit hosted the first race of the inaugural FIA Formula One World Championship in 1950 in front of the United Kingdom's King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. This year's 60th anniversary delivered classic racing - and excellent entertainment - to 300,000 people over the event's three days.

Faces in the paddock included musician Eric Clapton, comedian Rowan Atkinson and world land speed record holder Andy Green. It was a reminder of the huge appeal of F1 in countries with an established motor sport scene.

The key to developing such a culture is finding connection points for the public. In Britain about 230,000 people participate in motor sports of one form or another, with 42,000 holding race licenses. Thousands watch international and local races on Britain's 16 racing circuits - almost every weekend. The fans at Silverstone on Sunday had two Britons to support (McLaren's champions Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button) and victor Mark Webber, whilst Australian, has lived just down the road for more than a decade.