Silverstone 1950: The amazing stories behind the very first world championship F1 race

On this week’s episode of And Colossally That’s History! Matt and Richard wind the clock back to 1950, as they reappraise the very first race of the F1 world championship era, which took place at Silverstone on May 13. 

Along the way, they look at the origins of the term ‘Formula 1’, dig into the debate over where the first race run to Formula 1 regulations actually took place, and explain why Alfa Romeo emerged as the dominant force in the post-war years, leading up to Silverstone.  

They also discuss the strange origins of Silverstone as a race venue, before chatting about the wonderful ensemble of drivers that assembled at the former bomber base for the first race - a remarkable list that included a Thai royal, a Colditz Castle POW, and a gigolo, but NO representative from Ferrari.

And finally, they look back on the race itself, which was won by man who, to quote the great Juan Manuel Fangio, “Drove like a madman...”  

Matt and Richard will be bringing members an exclusive Q&A episode at the end of Season 3, where they'll answer questions on each of the topics covered. So if you'd like to ask a follow-up question about Silverstone 1950, join The Race Members' Club on Patreon today. For a limited period we’re giving you 75% off your first month!  

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And Colossally That's History!

And Colossally That’s History! (the name a reference to a famous line of Murray Walker commentary) is the podcast that takes an unadulterated look at the earth-shattering events, epic sagas and huge characters that have shaped motor racing history. From Grand Prix racing as a tool of the Nazi war machine to how Ayrton Senna’s death shaped modern F1, hosts Matt Bishop and Richard Williams will discuss and dissect these topics as only they can, bringing new insight and fresh perspectives that help explain how motor racing moved from niche past-time to the multi-billion-dollar sporting spectacle of today.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

• No. of episodes: 32
• Latest episode: 2025-06-06
• History Leisure Automotive

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