POLE POSITION: London taxis take the podium at Silverstone British F1 Grand Prix
- Perry Richardson
- Aug 4
- 2 min read
For the fourth consecutive year, London’s black cabs played a central role at the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, transporting VIPs, media, performers and F1 personnel across the vast circuit site. What started in 2022 with a modest presence has now become an integral part of the Formula 1 weekend.
In 2025, the operation expanded again, with 63 professional drivers covering the site in twelve-hour shifts over the four-day event. All were LTDA members, selected via a ballot system that balanced experience and fairness, allowing new and returning drivers alike to take part.
“This is more than just another job,” said LTDA Executive Anthony Street. “It’s an opportunity to showcase the professionalism of the London taxi trade to a global audience.”
The event saw over 1,500 individual jobs completed by the drivers, often in difficult conditions including heavy rain on race day. The trade’s electric TX taxis were prominent throughout, demonstrating both accessibility and environmental responsibility in line with Formula 1’s target of reaching carbon neutrality by 2030.
“These electric taxis not only look the part but play a serious role in supporting the event’s sustainability goals,” said Street in TAXI magazine. “It’s a chance for our industry to demonstrate it is serious about the future while still delivering the kind of service people associate with the badge.”
High-profile passengers included drivers Lando Norris and George Russell, celebrities, and VIP guests flown in by helicopter. The image of a line of black cabs waiting beside the helipad or podium area was beamed around the world, reinforcing the connection between London’s taxi service and premium transport.
Behind the scenes, LTDA staff worked to ensure the operation ran smoothly. Membership Lead Kate Hawkins and ground coordinator Frank O’Beirne were central to the event’s success, managing logistics and providing day-to-day support for the drivers.
“Without Kate and Frank, the service would not have run as smoothly as it did,” said Street. “Their work made sure drivers were properly briefed, supported and kept in good spirits.”
Now in its fourth year, the LTDA’s involvement with Silverstone is only expected to grow. Planning for the 2026 event is already underway. More members will be given the chance to get involved next year, with details to appear in TAXI and through LTDA member communications in the coming months.
“Each year this gets bigger and better, not just in size but in profile,” added Street. “This is a live international event with millions of eyes watching. Our drivers are representing the best of London and proving why black cabs are still the gold standard.”
With the Grand Prix once again completed successfully, Street closed with thanks: “I would personally like to offer a huge thank you to Kate, Frank and all the drivers for delivering a top quality service.”
