Motorsport: Brendon Hartley expects better at British Grand Prix

Brendon Hartley in action at the Austria Grand Prix. Photo / Getty Images

Toro Rosso Formula 1 driver Brendon Hartley is expecting a better showing at this weekend's British Grand Prix.

The New Zealander looked to be a chance of scoring points last weekend in Austria before a mechanical failure ended his race early.

Despite that setback Hartley thinks he and teammate Pierre Gasly will have a better chance at the iconic Silverstone track.

"I think we can be in good shape following the power unit upgrade that came in Canada, and then the aero update in Austria also arrived at the right time because at this track you need as much downforce as possible," Hartley said.

"I'm looking forward to tackling this circuit in a modern Formula 1 car, because it's going to be crazy quick. Silverstone is a real driver's track and it has often produced great racing especially when the weather is at play: it's one of the originals and it has a lot of character and a great atmosphere.

"I'm hoping for a strong weekend and some better luck than in recent races."

Hartley has failed to score points in five straight races. After some self-inflicted issues earlier during that span the Le Mans winner has driven much better in recent times and the Toro Rosso-Honda's package has been the reason for his lack of results.

The British Grand Prix is the third straight weekend of Formula 1 action and Hartley is looking forward to competing in one of the most famous motor races in the world.

"Silverstone has so much history and it's a very quick track where everyone loves Copse, Maggotts and Becketts corners," the 28-year-old explained.

"The track has been resurfaced for this year, so there will be even more grip than in the past.

"The fact there are a lot of high speed corners means it is very hard to overtake here, so qualifying will be a high priority."

While he hasn't competed at Silverstone before in a Formula 1 car Hartley does know the track well.

"I have good memories of living in Milton Keynes, not far from Silverstone, for seven years or so, which was a big chunk of my life," Hartley said. "That whole area is in some ways the home of Formula 1, because a large percentage of the race teams are based close by and our own Toro Rosso aero facility is just down the road in Bicester.

"As for the circuit itself, I have raced there many times and have some good memories."

The all-important qualifying session takes place early Sunday morning with the race early Monday.