British Grand Prix 2011 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Fernando Alonso delivered a masterful performance to win the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, ending Red Bull's stranglehold on victories and claiming Ferrari's first win of the season. The two-time World Champion produced a brilliant drive from third on the grid to beat both Red Bulls in changeable conditions, demonstrating world-class racecraft and tire management that reminded everyone why he remained one of Formula 1's elite talents despite Ferrari's struggles.

Mark Webber claimed his third pole position of the season with a lap of 1:30.399, finally converting his qualifying pace into a race-leading position at the start. However, Alonso had other ideas. Starting from third behind Webber and Sebastian Vettel, the Spaniard produced an aggressive opening stint and brilliant strategy to work his way to the front. The race unfolded in typical British summer fashion with threatening skies and unpredictable conditions, forcing teams into difficult strategic calls. Alonso judged the conditions perfectly, managing his tire degradation expertly on Silverstone's high-speed layout while maintaining relentless pace. He also set the fastest lap of 1:34.908, completing a commanding performance.

Vettel finished a disappointed second despite leading portions of the race, unable to match Alonso's pace in the closing stages as tire degradation took its toll on the Red Bull. The championship leader salvaged important points but endured one of his rare defeats in 2011. Webber claimed third place, continuing his frustrating season where pole positions failed to convert into victories. Lewis Hamilton finished fourth for McLaren in front of his adoring home crowd, while teammate Jenson Button could only manage fifth. The race featured intense midfield battles and several incidents typical of Silverstone's fast, flowing layout. Alonso's victory - Ferrari's sole win of 2011 - demonstrated that on the right day, with perfect execution, even the inferior Ferrari F150 Italia could beat the dominant Red Bulls. The result provided a rare moment of joy for the Tifosi in an otherwise disappointing season.