Lewis Hamilton
Hamilton won the Austrian grand Prix Getty Images

The F1 juggernaut has arrived at the Northamptonshire-based Silverstone circuit for the British Grand Prix. The home of British motorsport, the track has established itself as one of the most sought after circuits in the F1 calendar.

Mercedes will be favourites on this track, given that they claimed the first two spots last year, with Lewis Hamilton edging past teammate Nico Rosberg to the finish line. Sebestial Vettel of Ferrari came in third, while the Williams duo ended the race on fourth and fifth positions, respectively. Drivers should be able to get a feel of which tyres they need before qualifying, with the softer variety likely to rule the roost among most competitors.

Where to watch live

The second practice session of the British Grand Prix starts at 2pm BST on Friday (8 July), with Sky Sports F1 and Sky Sports F1 HD providing live coverage in the UK.

Real-time internet updates are available on the Live Timing section of the sport's official website.

Track Facts

  • Circuit name: Baku Silverstone Circuit
  • First F1 Race: 1948
  • Circuit length: 5.891kms
  • Number of laps: 52
  • Race distance: 306.198kms
  • Lap record: Fernando Alonso, 1:30.874
  • Most wins: Jim Clark and Alain Prost, 5
  • 2015 winner: Lewis Hamilton
  • 2015 pole: Lewis Hamilton

Drivers' Championship review

Nico Rosberg (153 points) is leading the championship, but teammate Lewis Hamilton has closed the gap and the difference currently between the two is just 11 points. Hamilton has won two of the last three races and is slowly looking back to his best form, but Rosberg's performance in the European Grand Prix saw him come into Silverstone as the leader.

Constructors' Championship review

Mercedes (295 points) have extended their lead over Ferrari (192 points) at the top of the table – following Hamilton's win at the Austrian Grand Prix – to 103 points and are favourites to take the Constructors' crown. Red Bull Racing (168 points) are close behind and would look to beat Ferrari and take second spot.