British Grand Prix shake-up confirmed in bid to spice up Silverstone F1 race
Fans were treated to Lewis Hamilton's emotional win last year and the track is always good for a dose of drama. Now the British GP is getting some special treatment which is intended to add to the excitement.
In 2025, there's been a growing trend of teams attempting to use the one-stop strategy. The FIA even enforced a mandatory second pit stop for last month's Monaco Grand Prix in an effort to make the race more exciting, a decision which resulted in mixed reviews.
While there'll be no such rule change at Silverstone, Pirelli have stepped in to shake things up - and it's all to do with their tyre allocations. F1's rulebook requires drivers to use at least two different dry tyre compounds during a race - whether it be soft, medium or hard.
The rule is only voided if a race to deemed too wet. For the British GP, drivers will be forced to select between the C2 hard, C3 medium and C4 soft tyres across qualifying on the Saturday and Sunday's race.
That's softer than ever before at Silverstone, with increased tyre degradation likely encouraging teams to make more than one pit stop. This usually leads to more overtaking and wheel-to-wheel action as well as giving strategists a headache.
For the following Grand Prix in Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium on July 27 - also a Sprint race weekend - Pirelli has elected to introduce a gap in its tyre selection by using the C1 hard, C3 medium and C4 soft. The thinking behind skipping a compound change is that it'll make the hardest tyre considerably slower compared to the other options.
Pirelli's motorsport director, Mario Isola, recently explained: "If you want to go one stop hard/medium, you are penalised by the fact that hard is much slower. So someone could choose a more aggressive strategy with mediums and soft for the race."
For the two races either side of Britain and Belgium - this weekend's Austrian Grand Prix and August's Hungarian GP - the C3, C4 and C5 compounds will be used. There is one even softer compound, the C6, but it's thought not to be viable for those circuits.
McLaren star Oscar Piastri currently leads the Drivers' Championship with 198 points after 10 Grands Prix and two Sprint races. Team-mate Lando Norris is closely behind on 176 points, with four-in-a-row world champion Max Verstappen of Red Bull sitting in third place with just over half of the season remaining.
Formula 1 fans can watch every practice, qualifying and race live with Sky's new Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle in a new deal that saves £192.
As well as Sky Sports access, this includes more than 100 TV channels and free subscriptions to Netflix and Discovery+.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Reuters
an hour ago
- Reuters
Teenager Antonelli paying price for 'wrong steps' by Mercedes
LONDON, July 29 (Reuters) - Mercedes have made mistakes in developing their Formula One car and teenage Italian rookie Kimi Antonelli's struggles are a consequence of that, according to technical director James Allison. Antonelli, 18, finished third in Canada in June for his first F1 podium but has since failed to score. He has had two retirements since Montreal as well as 17th in a sprint race in Belgium last Saturday and then 16th in Sunday's main grand prix. The Italian, who took a sprint pole in Miami and is the sport's youngest ever race leader, has retired four times in the last seven rounds and admitted in Belgium he was lacking confidence in the car and not driving as he would like. "I think he's, like the rest of us, massively fed up with a string of results that are well below what we were collectively achieving earlier in the year," Allison said in a Belgian race debrief on Tuesday. "I hope he takes some solace from the fact that we tell him, and it's demonstrably a fact, that we have taken the wrong steps with the car, making our team less competitive, and that he is paying the price for that, as is George (Russell). "If the car isn't where it needs to be, then it will be a struggle getting through the qualifying stages in your rookie season in F1." Allison said it was "utterly clear" to everyone that the car needed to be better and Antonelli's fortunes would improve when it was. "Hopefully he's listening to us as we say those reassuring words because we absolutely know that he is putting in the effort on his side of that bargain," he added. Mercedes are third overall, 28 points behind second-placed Ferrari, with one win by Russell in Canada. Russell has been on the podium five times and is fourth overall with 157 points to Antonelli's 63. Seven-times world champion Lewis Hamilton, whose seat Antonelli took when the Briton moved to Ferrari, showed his support for the Italian after Saturday qualifying at Spa. "He was telling me to keep my head up, and that it's normal to have bad weekends, and to just keep believing," the Italian told reporters. Hamilton told Sky Sports television he could not imagine what the rookie was going through. "He's been doing fantastic. But to be thrown in at the deep end at 18... he hadn't even had his driving licence when he first started racing," he said.
The Independent
3 hours ago
- The Independent
Turkey joins host of countries eyeing F1 race – and could step-in as soon as 2026
Turkey is looking to claim a permanent spot back on the F1 calendar and has offered the services of Istanbul Park for 2026 should any country be unable to host their race. The Turkish Grand Prix first appeared on the sport's calendar in 2005 for seven iterations, before it was dropped in 2011. However, the race at the popular Istanbul circuit returned in the Covid-hit years of 2020 and 2021. However, the Turkish Automobile Sports Federation (TOSFED) have made it known their desire to host a race again. While the 24-race 2026 calendar has already been published, Istanbul could step in if any race – such as the new street track in Madrid, with the race scheduled in September 2026 – is not ready in time. 'As is known, the 2026 calendar has already been announced,' TOSFED president Eren Uclertopragi told Autosport. 'Nevertheless, in the event that a race cannot be held for various reasons, we could host the Turkish Grand Prix.' However, Ulcertopragi has made it known that Turkey – alongside a host of other countries such as South Africa, Rwanda, Nigeria, Thailand and South Korea – wants a long-term spot on the schedule. 'There is a strong commitment from the government to bring Turkey back onto the Formula 1 calendar with a permanent and long-term agreement. 'Unlike during the pandemic, we do not want to host a one-off replacement race; instead, we aim to secure a place on the calendar through a long-term contract.' The federation's president added that a potential bid has the backing of Turkey's government and its location offers advantages, especially if any potential race can be paired with the nearby Azerbaijan Grand Prix. 'Turkey still has a very popular and unique track, a population of 85 million, great interest in the sport among young people, a market where more than 1.2 million cars are sold annually, factories or major distributors of most F1 car brands located here, and a geopolitical position,' he said. 'The huge spectator potential in countries within a two-to-three-hour flight from Istanbul makes it a country that could add significant value to the F1 calendar if included. 'Preferably, September is a month when the weather is good in Istanbul and students return to school. Therefore, I think it would be very convenient to organise the race in September. 'The fact that the Azerbaijan GP will also take place in our sister country in September could make things easier for Formula 1 teams in terms of logistics. A race that can be held before or after going to or returning from Baku would be a relatively lower-cost and easier operation for F1.' With the Dutch Grand Prix set to leave the calendar after 2026 and Barcelona also dropping off, two spots could open up for 2027. F1 is keen to host a race in Africa, the only habitable continent it does not host an event in, while a street track in Bangkok is also being considered by bosses of the sport.
The Sun
4 hours ago
- The Sun
DVLA bans hundreds of number plates ahead of new 74-reg's being released – full list that could land you with a £1k fine
THE DVLA has banned hundreds of new number plates set to be released with the upcoming '75' registration in September – and displaying one could cost you dearly. But before the plates hit the roads, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has already blocked a large number of combinations it deems unsuitable. 2 Why the DVLA blocks plates twice a year Each year, in March and September, the DVLA carries out a biannual review of upcoming plate sequences. Any combinations that risk causing offence, embarrassment, or outrage are swiftly removed from circulation. This is part of the DVLA's ongoing efforts to ensure the UK's roads remain free from controversial or inappropriate messages. Why the '5' in '75' is causing trouble Carwow, an automotive advice site, has compiled a list of the plates barred from use this time around. The '75' series has proved particularly challenging, as the number '5' can resemble an 'S', opening the door to potentially vulgar, suggestive, or aggressive wording. Banned plates include sexual, political and offensive terms Plates such as 'BO75 OCK', 'BL75 JOB', and 'DR75 NKY' have been rejected due to their sexual connotations. Others, like 'TO75 ERR', were considered inappropriate because of how they could be interpreted when viewed on the road. Political and socially sensitive messages have also been blocked. Combinations like 'EU75 WAR' and 'NO75 LAB' were seen as referencing contentious or divisive issues. 'NO75 LEZ' was similarly removed, thought to be a dig at low-emission zones, which are still a topic of heated debate in some parts of the country. Sexual innuendos have once again triggered red flags with the DVLA. Examples like 'PE75 RVS', 'TE75 CLE', and 'PR75 TIT' were deemed too crude or potentially offensive to allow through. Carwow's Head of Editorial, Iain Reid, explained the thinking behind the vetting process. He said: 'Personalised plates are always a source of creativity – and sometimes controversy. "Every release brings a wave of cheeky, clever, and occasionally questionable suggestions that the DVLA has to sift through. "While most are light-hearted, it's important the system filters out anything that could cause genuine offence. "With each new series, it's fascinating to see where the line is drawn.' Still, not all personalised plates are seen as problematic. The DVLA continues to auction off unique and playful combinations that are clean, clever, or in high demand. Many of these can fetch hundreds or even thousands of pounds, depending on popularity and desirability. Some of the more entertaining and acceptable plates coming up include 'GR75 AMG', which is likely to appeal to Mercedes enthusiasts. Another is 'MU75 CLE', which could be a hit with muscle car fans or fitness buffs. Then there's 'RO75 COE', a fun nod to Formula One lovers who follow Lewis Hamilton — his bulldog is famously called Roscoe. But drivers should be aware: using or modifying a plate to appear like one of the banned examples — even by adjusting spacing, font or layout — can land you in serious trouble. What makes a number plate illegal Under DVLA rules, number plates in the UK must follow strict design and display standards. They must use the Charles Wright 2001 font, which is a specific typeface required by law. The spacing between letters and numbers must be consistent, and any attempts to alter the layout to spell names or words are illegal. Plates also need to be reflective, with a white background at the front and yellow at the back. They must be rectangular and mounted properly on the vehicle. Decorative shapes, tinted colours or unusual arrangements are not allowed. A plate without the proper British Standard mark, or one that displays non-approved flags or logos, can also be classed as illegal. Acceptable flags include the Union Jack, Cross of St. George, Scottish Saltire and Welsh Dragon. What happens if you're caught with one? If a vehicle is found with illegal plates, the consequences can range from a fixed penalty notice all the way up to the car being seized. The maximum fine is £1,000. In some cases, the car may fail its MOT due to plate issues, meaning the driver is forced to replace it to get back on the road. Police can also issue a Vehicle Defect Rectification Notice, giving the driver 14 days to fix the issue and present proof. If ignored or if the offence is serious enough, officers have the power to seize the car immediately. That comes with a hefty price tag — a £200 release fee, plus £20 for each day the car is kept in storage. There's also a growing concern over plate cloning. Criminals can duplicate a legitimate plate to commit crimes or avoid charges like speeding tickets. Victims of this fraud often find themselves having to prove they weren't involved, which can be a stressful and time-consuming ordeal. The Sun has approached DVLA for comment. Banned '75' number plates revealed – full list of rude or offensive registrations 75 HAG • 75 LAG • 75 LUT • 75 PAZ • 75 TAB • AA75 LAH • AA75 RSE • AF75 GAT • AF75 GTT • AF75 GUT • AH75 OMO • AJ75 HAD • AP75 OFF • AP75 SUP • AR75 RSE • AR75 YAN • AS75 BJX • AS75 EXX • AS75 FKT • AS75 FUL • AS75 FWC • AS75 GAY • AS75 HAT • AS75 HOL • AS75 JOY • AS75 LWT • AS75 OLE • AS75 RUB • AS75 WNK • AU75 WTS • AU75 WTZ • BA75 ARD • BA75 ERD • BA75 HTT • BA75 SHT • BA75 TAD • BA75 TRD • BA75 TTD • BA75 TUD • BF75 TED • BJ75 BAD • BJ75 EXX • BJ75 EXY • BJ75 GUD • BJ75 HAT • BJ75 HOT • BJ75 LOB • BJ75 LSD • BJ75 NOB • BJ75 STD • BO75 DED • BO75 DTH • BO75 GAY • BO75 LSD • BO75 NOB • BU75 DCK • BU75 DKS • BU75 EXE • BU75 EXS • BU75 EXX • BU75 EXZ • BU75 FKT • BU75 GAY • BU75 HTE • BU75 LSD • BU75 NOB • BU75 SHT • CO75 DED • CO75 DTH • CR75 PLE • CR75 PPL • CU75 DCK • CU75 DKS • CU75 DYK • CU75 FGM • CU75 FWF • CU75 GAY • CU75 MUF • CU75 NOB • CU75 PRC • CU75 PRK • CU75 VAG • CU75 VAJ • CU75 YOU • DA75 FKT • EA75 BOY • EA75 BUT • EA75 DCK • EA75 DKS • EA75 DYK • EA75 DYE • EA75 FWF • EA75 GAL • EA75 GAY • EA75 GRL • EA75 HER • EA75 HTT • EA75 JUW • EA75 LAD • EA75 LEZ • EA75 LSD • EA75 MAM • EA75 MEE • EA75 MEN • EA75 MLF • EA75 MME • EA75 MOT • EA75 MUF • EA75 NAN • EA75 NOB • EA75 POO • EA75 PWP • EA75 SHT • EA75 VAG • EA75 VAJ • EA75 MUM • EU75 BAD • EU75 BOM • EU75 FWC • EU75 GON • EU75 HTR • EU75 ODS • EU75 ODZ • EU75 OFF • EU75 OUT • EU75 SHT • EU75 WAR • EU75 YES • FA75 DCK • FA75 DKS • FA75 DYC • FA75 DYK • FA75 EXX • FA75 FKT • FA75 FWF • FA75 GAT • FA75 GTS • FA75 GTT • FA75 GUT • FA75 NOB • FA75 PRC • FA75 PRK • FA75 PUS • FA75 RSE • FA75 SHT • FA75 VAG • FA75 VAJ • FA75 WAH • FF75 TED • FK75 AKE • FK75 EXE • FK75 EXX • FK75 EXY • FK75 HAT • FK75 LAM • FK75 LOB • FK75 REL • FK75 VAJ • GA75 AJU • GA75 BOM • GA75 BOY • GA75 CMP • GA75 DED • GA75 DTH • GA75 GAY • GA75 HER • GA75 JEU • GA75 JUD • GA75 KLL • GA75 NAS • GA75 NAZ • GA75 OVN • GA75 SED • GA75 SSD • GA75 UUU • GA75 UUX • GA75 YOU • GA75 ZAA • GA75 ZAX • GB75 BAD • GB75 BOM • GB75 DED • GB75 DWN • GB75 FKT • GB75 GNG • GB75 GUN • GB75 HTR • GB75 KLL • GB75 KLR • GB75 KLS • GB75 MOB • GB75 SHT • GB75 WAR • GE75 BJS • GE75 BJX • GE75 BJZ • GE75 BOM • GE75 DCK • GE75 DED • GE75 FKT • GE75 FWC • GE75 GAY • GE75 GUN • GE75 HOT • GE75 JEU • GE75 JUW • GE75 KYK • GE75 LEZ • GE75 LGB • GE75 LSD • GE75 NGR • GE75 NGZ • GE75 PAK • GE75 PKY • GE75 PUS • GE75 STD • GE75 VAG • GE75 VAJ • GO75 BLO • GO75 BOM • GO75 FKT • GO75 FWF • GO75 GAY • GO75 GUN • GO75 HOT • GO75 JEU • GO75 JUW • GO75 KLR • GO75 KLS • GO75 KYK • GO75 LEZ • GO75 LSD • GO75 NGR • GO75 NGZ • GO75 PAK • GO75 PKY • GO75 REL • GO75 SHT • GO75 STD • GO75 VAG • GO75 VAJ • GO75 WAR • GY75 POS • HE75 HEE • HE75 HES • HE75 HEX • HE75 HEZ • HH75 NAZ • HH75 OMO • HH75 TLR • HO75 AGE • HO75 BJS • HO75 BJX • HO75 BJZ • HO75 DCK • HO75 EXE • HO75 EXX • HO75 FKS • HO75 FWC • HO75 FWF • HO75 UCA • HO75 UCC • HO75 UCX • HO75 UKK • HO75 VAG • HO75 VAJ • JJ75 HAD • JU75 CMP • JU75 NAS • JU75 NAZ • JU75 OVN • KL75 HOT • KL75 REL • KN75 FED • KN75 FER • KN75 FES • KN75 FEU • KN75 FEX • KN75 FEY • KN75 VED • KN75 VES • KN75 VEU • LE75 BJX • LE75 BOS • LE75 BOZ • LE75 KLL • LE75 LSD • LE75 SHT • LE75 ZAA • LE75 ZAR • LE75 ZAS • LE75 ZAX • LE75 ZAZ • LE75 ZBO • LE75 ZER • LE75 ZRR • LE75 ZRS • LE75 ZZA • LE75 ZZR • LO75 DED • MO75 EST • MP75 GUN • MP75 HOT • MU75 DER • NA75 TZE • NA75 ZEE • NA75 ZZE • NF75 NAZ • NF75 XRW • NG75 NOG • NO75 ANE • NO75 LAM • NO75 LEZ • NO75 REL • NU75 ACK • NU75 BJS • NU75 BJX • NU75 BJZ • NU75 DCK • NU75 FKT • NU75 FUL • NU75 JOB • NU75 NOB • NU75 RUB • NU75 SAC • NU75 SAK • NU75 STD • NU75 UCZ • NU75 UKK • NU75 UKS • NU75 UKZ • NU75 VAG • NU75 VAJ • OR75 ASM • PA75 NOB • PA75 PUS • PA75 VAG • PA75 VAJ • PE75 ADO • PE75 DCK • PE75 KLL • PE75 KLR • PE75 MUF • PE75 NOB • PE75 RVT • PE75 VRT • PM75 HOT • PP75 OFF • PP75 SED • PP75 SER • PP75 SSS • PP75 SUP • PR75 CCK • PR75 CKK • PR75 CKS • PS75 CHO • PU75 SYY • RE75 ARD • RE75 TRD • RO75 NOB • RO75 STD • RO75 VAG • RO75 VAJ • SH75 HOT • SH75 TSS • SH75 TTR • SH75 TTS • SH75 TTT • SH75 TTY • ST75 ABB • ST75 ABS • ST75 ABU • ST75 ABX • ST75 ABZ • SU75 CDE • TH75 SHT • TO75 DCK • TO75 DED • TO75 DKS • TO75 DTH • TO75 DYK • TO75 DYE • TO75 FKT • TO75 GAY • TO75 HOT • TO75 KLL • TO75 LSD • TO75 MDR • TO75 NOB • TO75 PRC • TO75 PRK • TO75 VAG • TO75 VAJ • TR75 DRG • TR75 LSD • TR75 MAC • TR75 MAK • TR75 POT • TT75 RUB • TT75 WNK • UA75 RSE • UB75 TCH • UF75 TED • UP75 LAM • UP75 LSD • UP75 REL • UP75 SED • US75 HAT • US75 WAR • UU75 HAT • VA75 GNA • WE75 BJS • WE75 BJX • WE75 BJZ • WE75 EXX • WE75 FWF • WE75 MUF • WE75 NOB • WE75 POT • WE75 PRC • WE75 PRK • WE75 PUS • WE75 VAG • WE75 VAJ • WO75 FKT • XA75 RSE XF75 TED • YB75 TCH • YE75 MEN 2
