The postwar Schneider series moved among British, continental European, and American seaside venues, with the winning nation normally hosting the next contest. Britain had won in 1914 with the Sopwith Tabloid, while Italy dominated the early postwar races before Supermarine's Sea Lion II victory in 1922. Later American and Italian successes drove Supermarine back with the S.5, S.6, and S.6B wins of 1927, 1929, and 1931. The event carried diplomatic and industrial significance beyond the racecourse because it displayed national aviation capability before international audiences. With governments no longer willing to continue after 1931, Britain retained the trophy now held by the Science Museum in South Kensington.
Chapter · 20:50-24:43
The Schneider circuit became an international aviation contest
Follow the trophy among European and American venues as national competition pushed Supermarine from early success to three final victories.