Max Verstappen’s fourth pole position of the season was far from expected in Great Britain, but it makes a victory in today’s Grand Prix all the more anticipated. In this preview, we explain why he hopes for dry weather and how a simple calculation could lead to an (unexpected) win at Silverstone.
The Colder, the Better
Some Formula 1 cars perform better in low temperatures, while others can handle higher temperatures well. Cooling, overheating, tires that heat up too quickly or struggle to reach the right temperature; the conditions are always a challenge for teams everywhere.
With the RB21, Red Bull’s approach this year seems to be: the colder, the better. This appears to be the case in England this weekend. Along with updates and a change in setup, it’s one of the reasons why Verstappen made his move in the qualifying round on Saturday, after impressing earlier in the day during the third free practice session.
Fast on the Straight Stretch
Less downforce, thus conceding speed in the corners to benefit on the straight stretch. This was the choice that Verstappen and engineer Gianpiero Lambiase reportedly made after a disappointing Friday in Silverstone. The decision proved to be the right one on Saturday, allowing Red Bull and the Dutch driver to turn around a race weekend for the umpteenth time.
The fact that Verstappen managed to stay ahead of the McLaren duo Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, as well as both Ferraris of Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, is good news for him considering the low downforce. Verstappen’s Red Bull is now faster on the straight, making it difficult for his pursuers to overtake him. “We may get DRS, but then we’re only as fast as Max without DRS,” predicts Lando Norris.
When asked, this comment brings a smile to Verstappen’s face. “Well, with DRS, I think they’re still faster at McLaren. We’ll see. It’s going to be a great battle.”
Ferrari Wants Rain, Red Bull Doesn’t
Verstappen is hoping for dry weather for the race, according to his own statements. This makes sense, as due to the lower downforce, he would be more disadvantaged by rain than his rivals. The Ferrari drivers, on the other hand, are hoping for rain. “Their car has the most downforce this weekend,” Norris knows. “So that’s an advantage, they’re better in the high-speed corners.”
According to him, McLaren’s downforce is somewhere between Red Bull and Ferrari. “But don’t count out Mercedes.”
How will it end? Perhaps like in Japan, when Verstappen won from pole in a race with some rain. But cold and dry is better. This combination likely leads to a win for the Dutchman.
Additional Information
Lewis Hamilton holds the record for both poles (7) and victories (9) at the British GP. The track is 5891 meters long. The chance of a safety car is 88 percent. The average pit stop, including entry and exit, lasts 19.9 seconds at Silverstone.
