On May 13, 1950, at precisely 3:00 PM, the roar of engines marked the beginning of a new era in motorsport. The inaugural Formula 1 World Championship race took place at Silverstone Circuit in the United Kingdom, setting the stage for what would become the pinnacle of open-wheel racing. Now, 75 years later, Formula 1 stands as a testament to innovation, competition, and global appeal.
The Inaugural Race at Silverstone
The first official Formula 1 World Championship race was held at Silverstone on May 13, 1950. The event, attended by an estimated 120,000 spectators, including King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, featured 21 drivers from various backgrounds. Italy’s Giuseppe “Nino” Farina clinched victory in his Alfa Romeo, leading a dominant performance by the team, with teammates Luigi Fagioli and Reg Parnell completing the podium. This race not only marked the beginning of the championship but also introduced the world to the thrilling spectacle of Formula 1 racing.
Numbers behind F1
Take a look at the numbers behind the most exillerating sport in the world:
- 1131 Total Races have been held in Formula 1.
- 787 Drivers have raced in Formula 1 with 115 of them becoming race winners.
- 34 Drivers have gone on to become a World Champion and a total of 216 Drivers have stood on the podium.
- 363,956km have been raced over the 75 years, which is 95% of the distance to the moon.
- 77 different circuits have been raced at in the 75 year history of Formula 1.
Evolution and Milestones
Over the past 75 years, Formula 1 has undergone significant transformations:
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Race Calendar Expansion: From an initial seven races in 1950, the calendar has grown to 24 Grands Prix in the 2025 season, spanning five continents.
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Driver Demographics: The average age of drivers has decreased, with younger talents like Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri making their mark early in their careers.
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Technological Advancements: The sport has seen the introduction of hybrid power units, advanced aerodynamics, and safety innovations like the Halo device.
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Global Fanbase: Formula 1’s popularity has surged, with a 12% increase in global fans in 2024, reaching 826.5 million. Notably, China experienced a 39% rise in fans following the sport’s return to Shanghai.
Commemorating the 75th Anniversary
To celebrate this milestone, Formula 1 has undertaken several initiatives:
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Colorized Footage Release: Restored and colorized footage of the 1950 British Grand Prix has been made available, allowing fans to experience the sport’s origins in vibrant detail.
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24-Hour Livestream: A marathon of iconic moments, races, and documentaries is being streamed, offering fans a nostalgic journey through F1 history.
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Special Events: Various circuits and teams are hosting events and tributes throughout the season to honor the sport’s rich legacy.
Looking Ahead
As Formula 1 celebrates its 75th anniversary, the sport continues to evolve. The 2025 season introduces new talents, technological innovations, and a commitment to sustainability. With plans for further expansion and the introduction of new regulations in 2026, Formula 1 aims to maintain its position at the forefront of motorsport.
From its humble beginnings at Silverstone to its current status as a global phenomenon, Formula 1’s journey over the past 75 years is a testament to human ingenuity, passion, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
