Verstappen predicts worrying battery scenario at Silverstone: 'I did a few laps on the simulator, I just started laughing'

The recent regulatory tweaks introduced over the past few races have certainly reduced the severe clipping issues that were clearly evident in both qualifying and the races at the start of the season, allowing drivers to push almost flat out without having to worry too much about battery management. However, that scenario remains a concern for the four-time world champion ahead of next weekend's round at Silverstone, with the British circuit expected to pose a major challenge and a real test for the drivers.

Speaking after finishing second in the Austrian Grand Prix, Verstappen admitted concerns about what to expect at Silverstone under the current regulations. Although he described the circuit as one of his favourites, he revealed that his first simulator laps felt completely different from what drivers are used to, mainly because of the limited battery deployment available throughout the lap.

He explained that Silverstone's high-speed layout offers far fewer opportunities to recharge the battery than circuits with heavy braking zones, leaving drivers with little energy to deploy on the following straights. As a result, he expects the British Grand Prix to be a particularly demanding weekend.

After securing his second podium finish of the season at the Red Bull Ring, Verstappen said the most encouraging aspect of the weekend was finally feeling capable of fighting for victory. While pleased with the car's performance during the opening half of the race, he admitted its balance deteriorated after the midway point, with rear-end issues making it much harder to handle bumps, kerbs and traction. According to the Dutchman, understanding the cause of those problems will now be a priority.

Despite losing time in several on-track battles with Lewis Hamilton, Verstappen was still able to close the gap to the leaders before a problem affecting the rear axle in the second stint cost him pace for the remainder of the race.

Even so, he described finishing so close to victory as an extremely positive result and praised the team's work in bringing the latest upgrades to the car. He explained that, for the first time this season, he genuinely felt competitive throughout a race and able to push with confidence, adding that the updates had mainly delivered more grip and improved cornering speed.