Verstappen sees key challenges at Silverstone: It won't be smooth sailing

Max Verstappen has set out his expectations for the British Grand Prix weekend, pinpointing tyre strategy as one of the keys to success around the Silverstone circuit.

Verstappen arrives at the venue with a 46-point lead over Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez in the championship standings, with Ferrari's Charles Leclerc three points further back.

However, the Dutchman is keeping his feet firmly on the ground, knowing that several elements need to fall into place if he is to add to his six wins from nine races so far this season.

Looking ahead to the event in Red Bull's official preview, Verstappen said: "The performance this weekend will depend on whether we find a good balance. We also need a decent tyre strategy, as degradation will be high.

"So there's plenty of things that we need to get right this weekend; it won't be smooth sailing."

Verstappen excited by "real classic and historic" Silverstone

After recent visits to Monte-Carlo, Baku and Montreal, Verstappen is eager to tackle the high-speed sweeps of Silverstone.

"I'm looking forward to going back to Silverstone as it's a real classic and historic race on the calendar," he added.

"There are so many amazing fans there and it's nice to know that we are just down the road from the team at the factory in Milton Keynes.

"It's also good to be heading back to a traditional racetrack after quite a few street circuits."

Verstappen has one victory to his name at Silverstone, winning the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix in 2020.