Formula 1 stars to drive Lego-built cars in Silverstone parade

Formula 1 drivers will take part in a unique parade at the British Grand Prix, driving Lego minicars made from 28,000 bricks each.

The world of Formula 1 is set to collide with the imaginative realm of LEGO in an unprecedented spectacle at the British Grand Prix. Drivers will take to the track in custom-built Lego minicars, each constructed from an astonishing 28,000 bricks, for the pre-race parade at Silverstone.

This innovative event marks the latest chapter in the ongoing partnership between the LEGO Group and Formula 1, which has already delivered memorable moments such as the LEGO big build cars at last year’s Miami Grand Prix. The collaboration aims to infuse the high-octane world of racing with the boundless creativity of LEGO play.

The Making of the Lego Minicars

Each of the 22 Lego minicars is a marvel of engineering and design, comprising over 28,000 LEGO bricks along with additional components that make them roadworthy. The construction process involved more than 6,400 combined hours of work by a team of 20 specialists in design, engineering, and building from the LEGO Group.

These impressive creations weigh approximately 280kg, with 65kg of that weight coming from the LEGO bricks themselves. Fitted with standard go-kart wheels, the minicars are capable of reaching speeds up to 25km/h during their debut at the British Grand Prix Driver’s Parade.

Driver Reactions and Expectations

The idea of drivers navigating the track in Lego minicars has sparked a mix of excitement and skepticism among the F1 stars. McLaren driver Lando Norris expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “If it’s like Miami, then I think whoever can make it back to the start line will be a winner already. It’s a cool thing to do. It’s different.”

However, not all drivers are on board with the idea. Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton voiced concerns about the safety and practicality of the event, while Red Bull’s Max Verstappen would prefer a more traditional drivers’ parade. “I just get over with it as quickly as possible, wave to the fans, because they deserve that. But, of course, if it’s up to me, I would just like a normal drivers’ parade,” Verstappen said.

The LEGO Group and Formula 1 Partnership

The LEGO Group, founded in Billund, Denmark in 1932 by Ole Kirk Kristiansen, has a mission to inspire and develop the builders of tomorrow through the power of play. The company’s partnership with Formula 1 has brought together the excitement of motor racing with the creativity of LEGO, capturing the imagination of fans worldwide.

Emily Prazer, Formula 1’s chief commercial officer, highlighted the success of last year’s Lego driver parade in Miami, calling it “one of the most memorable and talked-about moments of the season.” She emphasized the unique appeal of combining the worlds of Formula 1 and LEGO play, creating an experience that inspires and excites fans of all ages.

The British Grand Prix is expected to draw a record-breaking crowd, with an anticipated 565,000 fans attending the race weekend. The Lego minicar parade promises to be a highlight of the event, offering a fresh and entertaining twist on the traditional drivers’ parade.