Sauber eyes step forward in Britain

Although Kobayashi was one of the stars of the European Grand Prix, the team's C29 was not well suited to the low speed characteristics of the Valencia street circuit.

However, having shown well on aero tracks earlier this season, both drivers feel that the car - especially with some aero upgrades, should be more competitive at Silverstone.

De la Rosa said: "We are all going to a new Silverstone and have to be open minded. The changes to the track look very nice and I expect its character, with plenty of medium and high speed corners, has remained unchanged, and this should suit our car more than the Valencia circuit did. I'm very much looking forward to the British Grand Prix."

Kobayashi, who ran third for much of the Valencia event after opting not to pit under the safety car, said: "I have a very good feeling for the race in Silverstone.

"I like this track a lot and I'm looking forward to seeing the new parts. The high speed corners make it one of my favourite circuits. Also there is always a good crowd, and I think this time with their fellow countrymen leading the championship they will be very excited."