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Inside Silverstone 2025: Drama On and Off Track
F1 photographer Michael Potts breaks down Horner’s firing, Silverstone’s madness, and Nico Hulkenberg’s emotional podium in this Sweet Take recap.
F1 never sleeps - and neither do the headlines. The 2025 British Grand Prix weekend at Silverstone delivered everything: wild weather, shocking penalties, redemption stories, and perhaps the biggest surprise of all came right after - Christian Horner fired from Red Bull.
Listen in to our full 2025 British Grand Prix recap with F1 Photographer, Michael Potts now available on Spotify or Apple Podcast.
Christian Horner Fired from Red Bull: What We Know
The F1 paddock was still drying off from a stormy Silverstone when news broke: Christian Horner has been fired by Red Bull Racing after two decades at the helm. No official reason. No warning.
Michael Potts, who was still recovering from the Grand Prix weekend, put it plainly: “I had 50 messages by the time I left the chiropractor. Complete shock.”
The stats make it even harder to grasp:
- 400+ races led
- 124 wins
- 100 pole positions
- 8 Drivers’ Championships
- 6 Constructors’ Championships
So why was Horner removed now? Michael speculated it might be part of a strategic move to keep Max Verstappen at Red Bull amid rumors of a potential Mercedes switch. With tensions between Jos Verstappen, Christian, and Helmut Marko well documented, the timing feels more than coincidental.
Could we see Christian in red next year? Ferrari-level red? Don’t count it out.
Silverstone 2025: Rain, Redemption & Hulkenberg’s Moment
The Silverstone Grand Prix never disappoints - and 2025 was no exception. With weather that felt more tropical than English and strategy calls that had fans screaming, here are the top takeaways:
Nico Hulkenberg Finally Gets His Podium
After years of near-misses, Nico Hulkenberg secured his first F1 podium, climbing from P18 to P3 in a sensational drive. For Michael, who’s followed Nico since his Brazil 2010 pole: “It was such a human, real moment - the crowd went wild.”
He even forgot to bring his helmet into the cooldown room. The most Nico move ever.
Oscar Piastri vs. Max Verstappen: Penalty or Politics?
Piastri’s alleged "brake check" on Verstappen sparked controversy - and earned a 10-second penalty. Michael explained that penalties are supposed to be based on actions, not outcomes. But did Max’s spin influence the stewards?
Oscar’s frustration was palpable, and fans were left debating fairness all over again.
McLaren’s Redemption & Strategy Masterclass
McLaren finally nailed their Silverstone redemption arc. No bad tire calls, no missteps - just smart, steady strategy. Lando Norris won his first home race, and Oscar was right there until that penalty.
And yes, Oscar did ask if Lando would give back the place. Respect the audacity.
Silverstone Weather = Strategy Roulette
From sunshine to downpours, Silverstone was a literal storm of decisions. Teams like Stake capitalized. Others - like Mercedes, Ferrari, and VCARB - floundered.
Mercedes gambled wrong with George Russell. Ferrari was invisible. VCARB’s stunning artist-designed livery barely saw the screen before Liam and Isack were out.
Yuki Tsunoda’s Struggles & Red Bull’s Bigger Problem
Max can make the RB car look like a weapon. But everyone else? Lost. Michael described Yuki’s car as looking “depressed” around the track. That’s… not ideal.
Now that Laurent Mekies is stepping into a CEO role at Red Bull, could we see a full restructure? Will the car finally be built for more than just Max?
Gordon Ramsay Tries to Butter Scones in a Hot Lap Car
Yes, really. Celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay got into a Ford hot lap car with a tray of scones, cream, and jam - and tried to assemble a proper English snack mid-lap. The results? Chaos. Flying scones. Flour everywhere. The poor driver? Unnamed. Probably traumatized.
Silverstone: F1’s Ultimate Festival Weekend
500,000+ fans packed into Silverstone, turning it into F1’s version of Glastonbury. From airshows and concerts to jam-covered celebrity chaos, it was a full cultural takeover. As Michael put it: “It’s a must-visit. The fan energy is unmatched.”
What’s Next: Silly Season Is Officially On
With Horner’s exit, Yuki’s future in doubt, and whispers of Paul Aron or Valtteri Bottas subbing in at Alpine to replace Franco Colapinto, the two-week break before Spa is anything but quiet. The Verstappen-to-Mercedes rumors are still hot, and every team principal seems one awkward weekend away from a phone call.
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