Silverstone set to host British Grand Prix Sprint weekend
The British Grand Prix at Silverstone is preparing to host a Sprint weekend, featuring competitive action from Friday through Sunday. This marks the first time since 2021 that Silverstone will hold a Sprint weekend, bringing a modified schedule to the iconic circuit.
The event, which is the ninth round of the season, will see Formula 1 drivers compete on the 3.661-mile track, known for its overtaking opportunities. The circuit includes challenging sections such as The Loop at the beginning of the lap and a high-speed middle sector leading to the Hangar Straight, where cars can reach speeds over 200mph as they approach Stowe.
Weekend Schedule and Key Drivers
The British Grand Prix weekend officially begins on Thursday, July 2, 2026, with a traditional build-up show live from the grid. On Friday, July 3, the schedule includes practice sessions for F1 Academy, F3, and F2, followed by F3 Qualifying, F2 Qualifying, and the British GP Sprint Qualifying, which is set to start at 4:30pm.
Saturday, July 4, will feature the F3 Sprint, the British GP Sprint at 12pm, and the F2 Sprint. Later in the afternoon, the British GP Qualifying will take place at 4pm, followed by F1 Academy Race 1. The main event, the British Grand Prix race, is scheduled for Sunday, July 5, at 3pm.
Among the drivers, George Russell, fresh from a win in Austria, will be aiming for his first victory on home soil. Lewis Hamilton, a nine-time winner of the British Grand Prix, will be looking to improve his mid-season title hopes following a disappointing race for Ferrari last Sunday. Lando Norris, who won last year’s race at Silverstone, is expected to face strong competition as he attempts to repeat his triumph. Other British drivers, Haas’ Oliver Bearman and Racing Bulls’ Arvid Lindblad, will be targeting points-paying positions.
Championship leader Kimi Antonelli enters the event as a favourite due to his recent speed, despite not winning the last two races. Max Verstappen is also anticipated to be a strong contender, potentially challenging the home favourites.
Weather Forecast and Track Conditions
The weather forecast for the British Grand Prix weekend indicates dry conditions throughout the three days of track action. Temperatures are expected to be in the mid-20s from Friday to Sunday. On Friday, July 3, temperatures are predicted to range from 12°C in the morning to a high of 24°C, with moderate winds averaging around 15 km/h and gusts potentially reaching 35 km/h. There is a 0% chance of rain, as a ridge of high pressure is expected to provide dry conditions.
Track temperatures on Friday afternoon could reach the low 40s with ample sunshine, or approximately 39°C if conditions are cloudier. Saturday, July 4, is expected to be warmer and dry, with high temperatures in the mid-20s and no rain. Winds could be breezy in the afternoon, with common gusts between 35-45 km/h and peak gusts possibly approaching 50 km/h. Track temperatures could reach near 40-41°C, potentially trending higher with greater afternoon sunshine.
Sunday, July 5, the day of the main race, is also forecast to have excellent weather for racing. Temperatures are expected to range from 16°C in the early morning to a peak of 24°C, with track temperatures again reaching at least the low 40s amid a potential mix of clouds and sun. Winds are predicted to remain moderate at an average speed of 15 km/h with gusts up to 35-40 km/h, and clear visibility is expected with no precipitation.
Viewing Information
For viewers in the UK and Ireland, the entire Silverstone weekend will be broadcast live on Sky Sports F1. Additionally, all F1 on-track action will be available for free on Sky One for those with a Sky box, from the practice sessions on Friday afternoon through to the British Grand Prix itself on Sunday, July 5, at 3pm. Non-Sky customers can stream the action with a NOW Day or Month pass, which offers a contract-free membership option.
Live coverage of the race weekend will also be available through a dedicated F1 blog, and highlights will be accessible shortly after the chequered flag on the Sky Sports app. The Sky Sports app also offers subscribers the option to go onboard with any driver during the race.
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Source: skysports.com