While the nation recovers from one monumental sporting occasion on Sunday, it gets ready to host another this weekend – none other than the prestigious British Grand Prix. Hosting the tenth round of the fast and furious Formula One series, the world’s best will battle it out for glory as part of the 23-race calendar.

Several UCFB students are lucky enough to be working at the event, earning themselves a front row seat as the action unfolds around the Silverstone track. Having been handed the responsibility of organising and participating in both opening ceremonies, the students will then able to enjoy the rest of the event at their own leisure, granted full access passes for the entire tournament.

 

Commenting on the weekend ahead, Rachael Vaughan, a BA (Hons) Football Business & Marketing student, could barely contain her excitement. She said: “I was lost for words when I found out I’d be working at one of the largest sporting events in the world. Working somewhere like this has always seemed beyond a dream as a graduate, never mind having the opportunity to do so whilst studying towards my degree.”

Rachael may be a die-hard Formula One fan, but Joey Parsons, also a student on the BA (Hons) Football Business & Marketing programme, admits it’s the novelty of the sport, and the thrill of the unknown, that’s drawn him in.

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The UCFB Wembley student said: “As someone who has never been to a Formula One race before I think the thing I’m most excited about is just trying to gain a better understanding of what Formula One is and why it’s so special to so many people. I’m also excited to see the Maclaren team as they are slowly becoming the team I support!”

Supervising the six students throughout the weekend is Luke Dick, a graduate of the BA (Hons) Stadium & Events Management programme, to ensure the event runs as smoothly and stress-free as possible. He said: “I will be supporting Pro-Excel, UCFB’s partners, over a variety of different tasks, including a large-scale dance performance, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of everyone at all times.”

Luke added: “We’re all looking forward to what should be an incredible weekend.”

Lewis Hamilton, the all-time record holder for World Championship titles, will be striving to close the gap on Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, who tops the rankings for this year’s series so far. Returning to Silverstone, where he’s won a staggering seven races, provides a unique chance for the British driving legend to re-find his former glory.

Speaking of Hamilton’s chances, Rachael said: “It’ll be a challenge for him to pull off the win this year, however he does have a brilliant record at Silverstone. His chances will no doubt be helped by the positive reception he’ll receive.”

Joey echoed: “If I was to base my prediction on the last few races I would have to say he won’t win but at the end of the day it’s a home race with a full capacity crowd – anything could happen.”