Max: Only Merc are faster

Although seventh in Friday's second practice at Silverstone, Max Verstappen believes Toro Rosso are only behind Mercedes when it comes to race-pace.

The Dutchman's British Grand Prix got off to a flying start as he finished third in the morning's opening practice.

Verstappen posted a 1:35.530 to end FP1 1.256s short of pace-setter Nico Rosberg.

And although in the day's second practice, where the best laps times were recorded on the medium tyres with low fuel, he was seventh, 1.145s down, the Toro Rosso driver feels when it comes to race-pace, his STR10 is right up there.

"Only Mercedes was a bit faster," Verstappen told Autosport.

"I think the long run was very good. I was very happy with the long run. I had the Mercedes in front of me and he was not pulling away a lot.

"In general, the car balance was very good and I think we can be very strong in the race.

"So I think it was a good day, especially on a difficult track to learn.

"I'm happy with my progress, especially as I didn't run much in FP1 because of a flat-spot I got."