The 2005 British Grand Prix Preview

The British Grand Prix is hosted at Silverstone, near Silverstone village in England. There is always a risk of showers, and this weekend that is most likely on Saturday, which could make qualifying interesting. Overtaking is typically difficult, though far from impossible. A fast lap requires excellent downforce from the aerodynamics to maintain speed in cornering with low enough drag for the straights; balance is vital to ensure tyre longevity and a powerful engine is well rewarded. Tyre wear will be an issue.

Analysis

The circuit has some of the fastest corners on the Grand Prix calendar, emphasising any weakness in the aerodynamics: those lacking downforce will be penalised through these corners, whilst an excess of drag will be costly on the straights. A good engine can make up for some aerodynamic deficiency, but there is little that can be done to counteract poor balance: failing to get the car set up effectively is costly in terms of both tyre wear and mechanical grip through the slower corners.