Tanabe looking forward to tough weekend: 'Will be a big challenge'

Honda chief Toyoharu Tanabe announces that the first free practice session in Britain will be very important, as the cars can no longer be modified from the 'normal' qualifying session.

Strong run of Red Bull

"After a run of excellent results in recent races, we now come to the British Grand Prix, traditionally one of the highlights of the season," Tanabe opens his story on his employer's website. Red Bull Racing has managed to win the past five Grands Prix and leads the Constructors' Championship, while Max Verstappen is top of the Drivers' standings.

"For the first time in the history of Formula 1, we will have a Sprint race on Saturday which will decide the grid for Sunday’s Grand Prix. It means that we at Honda  and all the teams effectively have to decide on set-up for PU and chassis, during just the one free practice session on Friday morning."

Determining setup will be very important

Tanabe admits it will not be an easy job to find the right setup with so little time. "This is a great challenge for the engineers and the accuracy of the simulation we have done prior to this weekend will take on even more importance than usual."

"This will be a tough weekend from many aspects, but we hope to keep the momentum of the last few races going in this important home weekend for us," Tanabe concluded. There will still be a second free practice session on Saturday, but thanks to Parc Fermé rules no more tinkering with the car is allowed.