Mercedes' strategic lift-and-coast at the Silverstone finish line

Russell lifts off the throttle 80 metres before the finish line during free practice. An analysis of battery management and charging for the flying lap.

Muretto · Redazione tecnica24 July 2026·Silverstone · Qualifiche

The telemetry anomaly Lifting off on the straight to maximise charge on the fast lap

During qualifying simulations at Silverstone, George Russell's telemetry shows a lift-off 82 metres before the finish line, cutting speed from 318 km/h to 302 km/h before launching into the flying lap.

Final 250 m of the flying lap. LEC's throttle stays at 100% up to the line; ANT's is still full at 45 m and drops to zero before crossing it, and speed falls with it.

Energy management Buying energy to have the full 350 kW available until the last corner

Under the 2026 regulations, storing the maximum permitted energy before starting the flying lap allows full electrical deployment through key sections such as the Hangar Straight and the exit of Club.

The lift point (45 m before the line) on the Silverstone start-finish straight.

Tactical reading A calculated trade-off between lap time and energy reserve

Sacrificing a tenth on the out-lap allows three to be gained over the timed lap, a demonstration of the strategic complexity of modern Formula 1.

The speed lost at the line on the flying lap sets the two Mercedes apart from the rest of the field.