Fernando Alonso joined a select band of two-time British Grand Prix winners on Sunday – and potentially re-ignited the Formula One drivers' championship in the process.

In front of record-breaking crowds and Silverstone's new �28m paddock, the Spaniard added to his win in 2006 – with a little bit of help from Sebastian Vettel's botched pit stop, but more to Ferrari's improved pace

And while it proved to be a disappointing afternoon for those hoping for home success, Alonso acknowledged exactly what it means to win at a place like Silverstone – where F1 began 61 years ago.

'It is a very special win,' he said. 'Silverstone is a special event for every driver competing in Formula One. We know the history of motorsport here in the UK so it is a special grand prix.

'Also today I had the privilege to drive the first Ferrari to win in Formula One, the car that won here 60 years ago with Jose Froilan Gonzalez, and today we won on the same circuit with the same passion.

'The passion and love for competition makes me so happy to drive this car and to achieve this success again.'

The weekend started in controversy over rule changes that seemed to be revised midway through practice sessions, much to the annoyance of those at Red Bull.

And it ended in similar fashion, after pole-sitter Mark Webber was told to 'maintain the gap' to his Red Bull team-mate Vettel as the Australian pushed for second spot on the final laps.

But Alonso was left hoping his first win of the season will be the start of Ferrari's come-back after a year so far dominated by Vettel.

'I am very proud of the recovery we did,' added Alonso.

'I think three or four races ago we were 1.5 seconds behind and now we were leading the race and pulling away, so definitely a good recovery from the team and a very special day.

'From now on we will challenge Red Bull all the way.'