British grime star Stormzy waved the chequered flag to end a stunning British Grand Prix, which this week signed a contract to host five more races in future seasons.
Bottas led from pole, though found himself under extensive pressure from Hamilton early on. The first round of pit stops saw Bottas change to a new set of medium tyres whilst Hamilton stayed out – a decision that proved to ultimately win him the race.
A safety car caused by a beached Antonio Giovinazzi gave Hamilton an effectively free pit stop, putting him ahead of Bottas and sealing the deal.
Further back Red Bull and Ferrari drivers fought between themselves, with Leclerc and Verstappen evidently wanting more drama following Austria’s eventful finish.
Though the two came to blows and banged wheels several times it was Leclerc’s team mate, Sebastian Vettel, that caused the most damage to the Dutchman – having been overtaken through Stowe the German attempted to re-take third place from Verstappen, only to run into the back of him and push both down the field.
The final portion of the race saw Sainz and Ricciardo fighting for “best of the rest” sixth place, with Sainz eventually besting the Australian.
Stormzy, fresh from his triumphant display at Glastonbury, was one of a host of celebrities attending Silverstone, including James Bond star Daniel Craig, Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi and Alan Partridge himself, Steve Coogan.