George Russell has said the British Grand Prix at Silverstone will produce better racing under the 2026 Formula 1 regulations despite the demands of greater energy management.
Russell stated that tracks with limited energy availability, such as Melbourne and China earlier in the 2026 season, have already delivered more competitive action than in previous years. He noted that Silverstone's layout, with its lack of braking zones, will place a premium on energy recovery and could lead to more chaotic racing.
"There's no doubt the tracks that are energy starved the racing will be better. It probably will be a bit more chaotic," Russell said. He added that the 600,000 fans expected at the circuit this weekend are unlikely to focus on energy management details.
Russell acknowledged that single-lap qualifying times may not match historical levels but urged an open mind about the new cars. He compared the situation to his time at Williams in 2020, when the fastest car he drove in a season still yielded no points.
The Mercedes driver concluded that drivers and spectators alike value close competition over outright lap times.