Excitement builds for the 2014 MotoGPâ„¢ season as testing gets underway

Fans got their first glimpse of the MotoGPâ„¢ teams and riders shaking down their 2014 machinery this week, during the first pre-season test in Sepang, Malaysia.

Seeing the riders back out on track has created huge excitement and anticipation for fans ahead of the forthcoming season, and Silverstone has seen a spike in ticket sales for this year's Hertz British Grand Prix (29 – 31 August).

Reigning Champion Marc Márquez dominated all three days in Sepang, but it has been a highly competitive test. Fans will be pleased to have seen nine-time world champion Valentino Rossi near the top of the time sheets, along with 2013 British Grand Prix winner Jorge Lorenzo.

It was also a promising test for the British contingent, as Cal Crutchlow got to grips with his new Ducati GP13 and Bradley Smith continued where he left off last year, with a strong start on the Monster Yamaha Tech3 M1. Having made the step up from Moto2, it was an important three days for Scott Redding, getting used to life with his new GO&FUN Honda Gresini team, while there were signs that Michael Laverty will be more competitive this year with Paul Bird Motorsport.

For MotoGP™ fans wanting to make the most of the pre-season buzz, a limited number of 'Early Bird' British Grand Prix tickets are still available until 17:00hrs on Monday 10 February, offering savings on both Three Day and Race Day tickets. There are also fantastic offers on family tickets, where two adults and three children can save up to £157 with weekend family passes.

Richard Phillips, Silverstone's Managing Director, commented: “Pre-season testing is the first chance for fans to see the riders, teams and new bikes and get an early feel for who's going to be competitive. It all helps to build up interest and anticipation ahead of the new season. Ticket sales for this year's British Grand Prix are looking good, and we're on course for another fantastic crowd at Silverstone in August. I would encourage fans to make the most of our 'Early Bird' tickets, which are still available until 10 February.”

Tickets for the 2014 Hertz British Grand Prix are on sale 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A limited number of tickets are available at 'Early Bird' prices until 17:00hrs on Monday 10 February. Visit www.silverstone.co.uk for more information or call 0844 3728 300.