1954 British Grand Prix

Previous race

At Reims, Mercedes dominated their championship debut. Fangio and Kling ran side-by-side down the straights through much of the race with the Ferraris unable to match their pace; González retired after 12 laps and Hawthorn’s car failed spectacularly. Herrmann set the fastest lap before retiring. Team orders brought Fangio and Kling home in formation, separated by a car length. Only six cars finished the 61-lap race.

Championship standings

Fangio’s back-to-back wins have extended his lead. Mercedes’s streamlined bodywork was decisive at Reims, though the character of Silverstone’s circuit may give other constructors more opportunity to respond.

Between-race developments

Vanwall make their championship debut at Silverstone with former HWM driver Peter Collins, their chassis prepared by Cooper.

Entrants

Only two Mercedes arrive — for Fangio and Kling — in contrast to the four at Reims. Maserati have nine cars in the field; Ferrari have three for Hawthorn, González, and Trintignant.

Milestones

Fangio becomes the first driver to lap Silverstone above 100 mph in qualifying, recording a time of 100.35 mph.