MotoGP and Moto2 Silverstone

British rider Scott Redding won his Moto2â„¢ race in front of the passionate home crowd, while reigning World Champion Jorge Lorenzo claimed victory in the headline MotoGPâ„¢ race, after a breathtaking battle with championship leader Marc Marquez.

Following bumper attendances of 53,250 for Qualifying on Saturday and 32,300 for Practice on Friday, the 159,006 three-day crowd was the highest in almost 20 years and a record in the MotoGP era.

Britain's Cal Crutchlow and Bradley Smith finished seventh and ninth respectively in MotoGP; Crutchlow racing with a badly injured arm after a heavy fall on Saturday.

Richard Phillips, Managing Director of Silverstone Circuits Limited, said: “We've seen record crowds over the three days here at Silverstone and have been treated to some sensational racing. Scott Redding rode a phenomenal race to win in Moto2 and it was fantastic to see a British rider on the top step of the podium. The MotoGP race was also a real thriller between Lorenzo and Marquez. We've had fantastic weather and the fans' support has been tremendous all weekend. They've really played their part in making this year's British Grand Prix one of the best in years.”

Race winner Scott Redding, who extended his lead at the top of the Moto2 World Championship, said: “I couldn't have asked for a better day than today; quickest in Warm Up, led 90% of the race and then went on to get the victory in front of my home crowd. I've had an amazing reception here this weekend and I've enjoyed every second of it. I'm pleased to have signed the MotoGP deal and for that to be out there, but firstly I need to try and wrap up this year's World Title.”

Marking 10 years since the passing of the late, great Barry Sheene, Silverstone also hosted a well-received Tribute Parade to honour one of Britain's most popular and successful motorcycle racers. Taking place between the Moto2 and MotoGPâ„¢ races on Sunday, the Parade featured several of Barry's family, former teammates and rivals, riding a selection of the bikes that the two-time World Champion rode during an illustrious career.

The riders included Sheene’s son Freddie, brother-in-law Paul Smart, nephew Scott Smart, former teammate Steve Parrish, Niall MacKenzie and his son, Taylor MacKenzie. Friend and on-track rival, Randy Mamola, also supported the tribute, as did Barry's daughter, Sidonie S

Our contributor Matthew Thomas reports on the MotoGP race

Lorenzo Reignites his Title Challenge With a hard fought Silverstone Victory

MotoGP world champion, Jorge Lorenzo claimed his first win since June to keep the pressure on Marc Marquez at the top of the championship.

The Yamaha rider managed to beat pole sitter Marc Marquez to the flag. 20 year-old Marquez fought hard to finish second despite dislocating his shoulder in the morning's warm-up session. Meaning the Honda man still increased his lead over Dani Pedrosa to 30 points.

Pedrosa finished behind his compatriots in third, while Britain's Cal Crutchlow could only finish seventh at his home race. Crutchlow had also been involved in the morning accident, after losing the front end of his bike.

It was a scary moment as the Brit and a number of marshals had to be quick on their feet to avoid the incoming Marquez, after the Honda collected the stricken Tech 3 Honda.

Valentino Rossi got the best of Alvaro Bautista, for the second race running, to finish fourth while Stefan Bradl claimed sixth.

Lorenzo and Marquez were inseparable throughout the afternoon and as the race reached its climax the fight hotted up. With just a lap to go Lorenzo had taken the lead at Vale before Marquez forced in front with just three corners remaining. However, in a breathless finish, Lorenzo pipped the youngster into the final corner to take the chequered flag.

“I pushed all the race,” said Lorenzo.
“When he overtook me into the final three corners I thought it was over, but he left a little space and it was now or never. I'm very pleased with this victory.”

The MotoGP fraternity now heads to Misano, San Marino for round thirteen.

Results

1. Jorge Lorenzo
2. Marc Marquez
3. Dani Pedrosa
4. Valentino Rossi
5. Alvaro Bautista
6. Stefan Bradl
7. Cal Crutchlow
8. Nicky Hayden
9. Bradley Smith
10. Aleix Espargaro