SPORTS

Silverstone drivers stage Lego car parade spectacle

▪

Read, Watch or Listen

SILVERSTONE, England, July 5 (Reuters) - Formula One drivers completed a British Grand Prix parade lap in life-size cars built from more than 28,000 Lego bricks each, entertaining a packed Silverstone crowd with low-speed spins and several cars sliding into the gravel at the first corner. Williams driver Carlos Sainz was among those stranded and then hitched a lift with McLaren world champion Lando Norris, while FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem joined the full 22-driver field in the light-hearted pre-race event. Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso, who had qualified last for the actual grand prix, was the first Lego car to reach the chequered flag at the end of the lap. The Lego machines, built on standard go-kart wheels and capable of reaching speeds of up to 25 kph (16 mph), carried the teams’ 2026 liveries and driver numbers to give fans an early look at future designs. A team of 20 designers, engineers and Lego builders at a factory in Kladno in the Czech Republic spent more than 6,400 hours constructing the fleet. Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton took part despite suggesting earlier in the week that he would skip the stunt, and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen also joined in after previously criticising the idea as making the drivers look like kids and clowns. The spectacle followed earlier Lego-themed promotions in Formula One, including brick-made trophies at last year’s British Grand Prix and a parade of life-size electric Lego cars around Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

Last year Top three receive Lego trophies
Last year Drivers lap Miami in Lego cars
Recent months Lego cars designed and engineered
Recent months Vehicles constructed in Czech factory
Sunday Lego cars parade before British Grand Prix
Sunday Multiple Lego cars beach in gravel
Sunday Fernando Alonso finishes Lego parade first
Sunday Hamilton and Verstappen ultimately join stunt

Why This Matters to You

This Lego car parade adds a fun twist to the usual Grand Prix events. It's a chance for fans to see their favorite drivers in a new light, and get a sneak peek at future team designs. If you're a Formula One enthusiast, consider checking out these Lego-themed promotions for a unique spin on the sport.

The Bottom Line

Formula One is embracing a playful side with life-size Lego cars. Despite initial criticism, even top drivers like Hamilton and Verstappen joined in. It's a reminder that sports can be both competitive and entertaining. Worth forwarding if you know a racing fan who could use a smile.