Toro Rosso’s Pierre Gasly is set to receive a five-place grid penalty at the Mexican Grand Prix, after his STR12 was fitted with new engine components.
Gasly, having contested the ultimately aborted Super Formula finale, instead of the US Grand Prix, has returned to Formula 1 for this weekend’s event at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez.
Gasly has taken over the entry previously occupied by Carlos Sainz Jr. and Daniil Kvyat, meaning that he inherits the engine components listed for that car.
Gasly’s STR12 has been fitted with its fifth Control Electronics, meaning he is poised to be slapped with a five-place drop from wherever he qualifies on the grid.
![Alpine Managing Director Steve Nielsen [pictured with Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore] is stern in his belief Mercedes has acted correctly](https://www.motorsportweek.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Alpine-Steve-Nielsen-Flavio-Briatore-120x86.webp)
A fourth Energy Store has been installed, though as this is not in breach of the season allocation, no sanction will be forthcoming.
Gasly did not drive in FP1, with tester Sean Gelael instead taking his place, alongside Brendon Hartley.
![Alpine Managing Director Steve Nielsen [pictured with Executive Advisor Flavio Briatore] is stern in his belief Mercedes has acted correctly](https://www.motorsportweek.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Alpine-Steve-Nielsen-Flavio-Briatore-350x250.webp)
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