Police hunt Silverstone F1 steering wheel thief as 20 British GP arrests made
A steering wheel from an iconic classic Formula 1 car, valued at over £2,500, was stolen from a vintage motor on show at Silverstone during the British Grand Prix. It was one of several incidents reported to police after a spate of damage caused to vehicles on site at the Northamptonshire circuit.
The engineer in charge of the classic car, the Leyton House CG901 designed by Adrian Newey and raced in the 1990 F1 season, lamented the lax security, and said the theft had left a "sour taste in the mouth" regarding the event. The incident occurred at around 2.30pm on Friday as the team ate their lunch.
Race engineer Russell Sheppard spoke of how the 1990 Leyton House CG901 was scheduled for a track run and only managed to participate thanks to a replacement wheel found at the last minute. Sheppard, employed by Martin Stretton Racing, declared the stolen wheel irreplaceable.
"We'd just left the car for lunch, we came back and went to do some work on the car, and it's like, 'Where's the steering wheel?'" he told the Press Association. "It's very sad, because it's an original piece of the car, original piece of history for it."
Sign up to our free weekly F1 newsletter, Pit Lane Chronicle, by entering your email address below so that every new edition lands straight in your inbox!
Northamptonshire Police have circulated a CCTV image of an individual they're keen to question in relation to the theft. Sheppard said he just wants to see the steering wheel returned to the car where it belongs.
He said: "It's bespoke to the car, because the 1990s cars, the cockpits are so small you have to have a small wheel with a very small grip on it. I've been speaking to the people who made it in Italy originally, and sadly, they don't produce them anymore. We've got to go down the road of getting one bespoke made. It's just the hassle, it's the cost, it's an unnecessary procedure you have to go through which we shouldn't have to be doing."
Another historic F1 car exhibited by the team was treated "like a climbing frame" by attendees, Sheppard said, while an additional vehicle suffered damage worth thousands when someone attempted to clamber inside, according to police.
Sheppard said: "We had a Forti, another 1996 Formula 1 car on one of the other stands, and people were just using it like a climbing frame. We haven't seen any damage on that yet. We're just about going through it today.
"We're here to show off history and keep things moving and alive. People doing things like this, sadly, it puts a sour taste in your mouth. Hopefully next time, security will be even more. Sadly, the security guards aren't security people. They're just people that stand there. They're not being informed of what to do and how to do it."
The event drew a massive crowd, with around 500,000 people visiting the circuit over the weekend. On Sunday, 168,000 people witnessed Lando Norris clinch his first-ever British Grand Prix victory. During the event, police reported a total of 34 crimes, including theft, criminal damage, assault and drug possession, resulting in 20 arrests.
A classic Formula 1 car exhibited at Silverstone suffered "several thousands of pounds worth of damage", according to police. The damage was allegedly caused by an individual who "accessed the display stand and climbed into the vehicle".
Three men, aged 23, 25 and 27, were arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage but were subsequently released without any further action. One of them was popular YouTuber AngryGinge who said he spent 15 hours in a cell overnight and maintained he had done nothing wrong.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Scottish Sun
2 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
Christian Horner could make shock return to F1 with Red Bull's rivals after brutal sacking and have very frosty reunion
CHRISTIAN HORNER is jobless for the first time since 2004 after his brutal Red Bull sacking last week. The 51-year-old is now twidling his thumbs on gardening leave for the rest of the year. 6 Christian Horner could be back in F1 next year after his Red Bull gardening leave Credit: AFP 6 Horner has had huge success with Red Bull but was brutally sacked last week Credit: Getty And Horner and will be weighing up his options from January 2026 onwards. Rumours have been swirling around over the Brit's potential destinations - including a shock move to Ferrari. Reports in Italian and German media begun claiming in May that Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur's position is under threat. Vasseur hit out at the reports and said they were "disrespectful" and "very harsh". But German outlet BILD has added fuel to the fire, claiming that Ferrari had made "informal" contact with Horner. Horner dismissed the report - but speculation will continue to grow as the weeks go by with him sitting on the sidelines. Come the Belgian Grand Prix later this month, Horner will be missing from the F1 paddock for the first time in nearly 21 years. And Horner, who won six constructors' championships and eight drivers' titles with Red Bull, will no doubt be getting itchy feet soon. BEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERS If Horner did pen an unlikely move at Ferrari it would see him form a wild pairing with his old rival, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. Hamilton has a Ferrari contract until at least the end of 2026 and is already a huge voice within the Italian team. Christian Horner SACKED by Red Bull F1! Shock Departure After 20 Years It is likely he would not be impressed if Horner replaced Vasseur, given he is a big fan of the Frenchman and has thrown his support behind him in public. When Vasseur's future was under speculation, Hamilton said: "I love working with Fred – Fred's the main reason I'm in this team and got the opportunity to be here, for which I'm forever grateful for, and we're in this together. 'We're working hard in the background, things aren't perfect but, for me, I'm here to work with the team but also with Fred. "I want Fred here. I do believe Fred is the person to take us to the top, so that's that. So it's all nonsense." Bad blood Hamilton took a strong take on Horner's alleged 'inappropriate behaviour' with a female colleague last year. The ex-Red Bull boss was twice cleared from it by an independent investigation but Hamilton said it was "hanging over the sport" and said the outcome was "important for the future of F1". He also hit out at Horner in 2023 for "stirring" when he claimed Hamilton tried to join his team after leaving Mercedes. At the time Horner said that a member of Hamilton's team had been in touch over a possible switch to Red Bull earlier in the year. Hamilton rebuffed it and said Horner had actually been the one to text him and try set up a meeting. Obviously there was bad blood going back between the two during Hamilton and Max Verstappen's fierce and controversial title fight in 2021 which reached its crescendo in the contentious season finale in Abu Dhabi. 6 There is speculation Horner could replace under-fire Fred Vasseur at Ferrari Credit: Getty 6 Horner could find himself in a frosty partnership with Lewis Hamilton Credit: Getty 6 There is still some bad blood after Max Verstappen's controversial world title win over Hamilton in 2021 Credit: AP Hamilton changed his tune Recently, with Horner still at Red bull, Hamilton admitted he regretted referring to Red Bull as a "drinks company" in 2011. His comments suggested that he is previous beef with Horner was water under the bridge. At Silverstone he said: "Many, many years ago, I remember saying something about Red Bull being only a drinks company. 'I always regretted it because I was just saying that Mercedes at the time were great. "I was really just trying to gee up my team. But the truth is, Red Bull have been an incredible team. There are so many people there that are exceptional and they've dominated for years.' Horner makes his feelings on Hamilton known It feels like Horner would have no qualms working with the British 40-year-old, who he has praised in public this season. Speaking earlier in the year, Horner said of Hamilton's Ferrari move: "I've seen some pictures, I think it [Ferrari red] suits him. "It's great for Formula 1. Lewis Hamilton in a Ferrari – that really is box office. "I think it's just another dynamic for this year that could be super exciting." Back in 2023, Horner was asked whether he would sign Hamilton for Red Bull. He replied: "What Lewis has achieved in F1 is second to none, but we're very happy with the drivers that we have – they're committed as a pair for not only this season but the next season as well. "I can't see where we would be able to accommodate Lewis, but I'm sure they're [Mercedes] going to sort their issues out and we're certainly not writing him off yet."
The Sun
2 hours ago
- The Sun
Christian Horner could make shock return to F1 with Red Bull's rivals after brutal sacking and have very frosty reunion
Isabelle Barker, Sport Reporter Published: Invalid Date, CHRISTIAN HORNER is jobless for the first time since 2004 after his brutal Red Bull sacking last week. The 51-year-old is now twidling his thumbs on gardening leave for the rest of the year. 6 6 And Horner and will be weighing up his options from January 2026 onwards. Rumours have been swirling around over the Brit's potential destinations - including a shock move to Ferrari. Reports in Italian and German media begun claiming in May that Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur's position is under threat. Vasseur hit out at the reports and said they were "disrespectful" and "very harsh". But German outlet BILD has added fuel to the fire, claiming that Ferrari had made "informal" contact with Horner. Horner dismissed the report - but speculation will continue to grow as the weeks go by with him sitting on the sidelines. Come the Belgian Grand Prix later this month, Horner will be missing from the F1 paddock for the first time in nearly 21 years. And Horner, who won six constructors' championships and eight drivers' titles with Red Bull, will no doubt be getting itchy feet soon. If Horner did pen an unlikely move at Ferrari it would see him form a wild pairing with his old rival, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. Hamilton has a Ferrari contract until at least the end of 2026 and is already a huge voice within the Italian team. It is likely he would not be impressed if Horner replaced Vasseur, given he is a big fan of the Frenchman and has thrown his support behind him in public. When Vasseur's future was under speculation, Hamilton said: "I love working with Fred – Fred's the main reason I'm in this team and got the opportunity to be here, for which I'm forever grateful for, and we're in this together. 'We're working hard in the background, things aren't perfect but, for me, I'm here to work with the team but also with Fred. "I want Fred here. I do believe Fred is the person to take us to the top, so that's that. So it's all nonsense." Bad blood Hamilton took a strong take on Horner's alleged 'inappropriate behaviour' with a female colleague last year. The ex-Red Bull boss was twice cleared from it by an independent investigation but Hamilton said it was "hanging over the sport" and said the outcome was "important for the future of F1". He also hit out at Horner in 2023 for "stirring" when he claimed Hamilton tried to join his team after leaving Mercedes. At the time Horner said that a member of Hamilton's team had been in touch over a possible switch to Red Bull earlier in the year. Hamilton rebuffed it and said Horner had actually been the one to text him and try set up a meeting. Obviously there was bad blood going back between the two during Hamilton and Max Verstappen's fierce and controversial title fight in 2021 which reached its crescendo in the contentious season finale in Abu Dhabi. 6 6 6 Hamilton changed his tune Recently, with Horner still at Red bull, Hamilton admitted he regretted referring to Red Bull as a "drinks company" in 2011. His comments suggested that he is previous beef with Horner was water under the bridge. At Silverstone he said: "Many, many years ago, I remember saying something about Red Bull being only a drinks company. 'I always regretted it because I was just saying that Mercedes at the time were great. "I was really just trying to gee up my team. But the truth is, Red Bull have been an incredible team. There are so many people there that are exceptional and they've dominated for years.' Horner makes his feelings on Hamilton known It feels like Horner would have no qualms working with the British 40-year-old, who he has praised in public this season. Speaking earlier in the year, Horner said of Hamilton's Ferrari move: "I've seen some pictures, I think it [Ferrari red] suits him. "It's great for Formula 1. Lewis Hamilton in a Ferrari – that really is box office. "I think it's just another dynamic for this year that could be super exciting." Back in 2023, Horner was asked whether he would sign Hamilton for Red Bull. He replied: "What Lewis has achieved in F1 is second to none, but we're very happy with the drivers that we have – they're committed as a pair for not only this season but the next season as well. "I can't see where we would be able to accommodate Lewis, but I'm sure they're [Mercedes] going to sort their issues out and we're certainly not writing him off yet." 6
Scottish Sun
3 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
7 discounted EVs you can buy through government's controversial new tax payer-funded scheme
The Electric Car Grant makes EVs under £37,000 more affordable, including for Motability users, but raises concerns over taxpayer funding and infrastructure issues PLUGGED IN 7 discounted EVs you can buy through government's controversial new tax payer-funded scheme Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A NEW £650 million grant will knock up to £3,750 off the price of low-priced EVs, the government has revealed. A new Electric Car Grant will see taxpayers foot the bill for EVs costing under £37,000, and only models from brands that have committed to a so-called Science-Based Target (SBT) for emissions. 7 A £650million grant will knock up to £3,750 off the price of low-priced EVs - with concerns raised over taxpayer funding and infrastructure issues Credit: Getty According to Auto Express, fewer than 50 new EV models would be eligible for the grant - provided they pass the necessary criteria. The scheme will also provide additional support for electric car purchases for Motability customers - as revealed in The Sun's recent report - offering substantial discounts. This has raised concerns among some critics, who argue that taxpayers may effectively be contributing twice - once through the Motability scheme and again through the EV grant subsidies. Furthermore, some welfare users have expressed difficulties with EVs, with issues such as limited home charging facilities and inadequate public charging infrastructure causing frustration for some. Despite these concerns, supporters of the scheme, including Motability Operations, emphasise that including Motability users in the EV grant is vital to ensure the transition to electric vehicles remains inclusive and supports disabled drivers. A spokesperson from Motability Operations told The Sun: 'We welcome the Government's Electric Car Grant and the inclusion of our customers. 'It's vital that the EV transition is inclusive and doesn't leave disabled people behind. 'With the 2035 deadline on the horizon, any move that supports both drivers and the wider industry and improves positivity towards EVs is welcome.' Recent findings, though, found that drivers with ailments including constipation and "tennis elbow" were being funded by the Motability scheme. Some influencers have even been found to boast online about obtaining these vehicles for minimal costs, and even advising others on how to maximise their benefits. Alpine A290 GTS delivers a hot hatch EV that comes with F1-style 'overtake button' SHOPPING LIST There are also several key points to keep in mind before you set out to choose your shiny new discontinued EV. Firstly, the scheme will not be immediately accessible - even though it officially launches on July 16. This is because car brands must apply for eligibility for the vehicles in their ranges, rather than buyers being able to register grants at the point of purchase. Also, not all grants will amount to £3,750 as the scheme adopts a two-tier system, with the value deducted from the recommended retail price (RRP) depending on how environmentally friendly the manufacturing process is for each model. According to the RAC, these restrictions encourage drivers to choose models that are not only cost-effective, but also more sustainable for the planet. To that end, we've picked out seven EV examples that could get the EV grant - though it remains to be seen if they will meet the criteria for the full subsidy of £3,750. Dacia Spring - Priced from £14,995 7 Dacia Spring Credit: Not known, clear with picture desk The nation's cheapest EV at £14,995 (if we look past the Citroen Ami, which is classed as a motorised quadricycle), the Spring, could be about to get a whole lot cheaper - if it meets the EV grant's criteria. The little EV, which boasts up to 140 miles of range - certainly enough for a trip to the shops and back - certainly doesn't boast many frills, but it's rather great for simple, daily use. Fiat Grande Panda - Priced from £21,035 7 Fiat Grande Panda Credit: PA One of the world's most famous nameplates is back, bigger and better than ever. The Panda, known as the national car of Italy, starts at around £21,035 for its electric iteration and has been given a radical new look. And, as the name suggests, it's a little bigger - somewhat similar in size to its Stellantis cousin, the Citroen C3 - with enough space that Fiat described as 'perfect for comfortable family living and contemporary urban mobility'. Peugeot e-208 - Priced from £30,150 7 Peugeot e-208 Credit: Getty Stylish and well-rounded, the e-208 is one of the finest all electric hatchbacks available - offering excellent performance alongside practicality, making it one of the most popular choices in its price range. It features a 50kWh battery and a 100kW electric motor, offering a range of up to 225 miles. Better yet, a GTI version is coming soon in what we described as a huge nod to an 80s classic. MG4 - Priced from £26,995 7 MG4 Credit: MG The MG4, often praised for its value for money, impressive range - which starts at 218 miles for the standard edition - and modern features, it's also one of the best EVs around for families thanks to surprising levels of space inside. Better yet, its suspension is tuned for comfort on long journeys, absorbing minor road imperfections. Fiat 500e - Priced from £25,035 7 Fiat 500e Credit: PA One of the nation's favourite petrol-powered little cars was discontinued last year, with Fiat now urging buyers to get their 500 thrills from the all-electric 500e. The iconic design is still there, but with the benefits of electric driving - offering a compact and efficient option for city drivers. Volkswagen ID.3 - Priced from £30,860 7 Volkswagen ID.3 Credit: Getty One of the most refined options available for under £37,000, the ID.3 delivers a comfortable ride, good range and the reliability associated with VW. Better yet, it offers user-friendly features, decent charging speeds and a good overall value, particularly when considering running costs. Honourable mentions: Alpine A290: instantly iconic and one of the most fun cars - electric or otherwise - on the market, the A290, which starts at £33,000, has won numerous awards and plaudits. MINI Cooper Electric: another hot hatch that's high on the fun factor, the famous Cooper now comes electric - including all the fun driving dynamics you'd come to expect. Volvo EX30: want something premium? This compact electric SUV stands out for its style, typically minimalist Scandinavian design and impressive performance, as well as all the practicality and tech that Volvo does best.
