Max Verstappen has been handed a five-place grid penalty for Sunday’s Formula 1 Sao Paulo Grand Prix after Red Bull exceeded his engine allocation once again.
Verstappen already took a 10-place gird penalty during Summer’s Belgian GP at Spa-Francorchamps for exceeding his engine allocation of four units for the year.
However, after persistent issues last time out in Mexico City, Red Bull’s hand has been forced once again, prompting a five-place grid drop at Interlagos.
A new Internal Combustion Engine has been introduced to Verstappen’s RB20 as well as a new exhaust system.
The exhaust system takes Verstappen to eight used in 2024, the maximum for this item before incurring a penalty.
Verstappen’s penalty will only come into play for Sunday’s GP and will not affect his starting position for Saturday’s Sprint.
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Ahead of the Sao Paulo GP weekend unfolding, Red Bull Advisor Helmut Marko told Speedweek that “we cannot avoid changing the engine in Brazil, with a corresponding penalty.”
With drivers such as Lewis Hamilton having success following grid penalties at Interlagos, Verstappen was asked on Thursday if this is one of the better venues to take such a hit.
“Honestly, that is something that is always unknown,” the Dutchman replied.
“You think that one particular track is the best place to take an engine or whatever penalty, but it’s never guaranteed.
“But yeah, it’s a possibility.”
A five-place drop means Verstappen will start from the best possible grid slot of sixth for Sunday’s race.
This could have ramifications in the fight for the F1 Drivers’ title as Verstappen currently leads McLaren’s Lando Norris by 47 points.
Verstappen aborted his final soft tyre run in the solitary practice session at Interlagos, finishing 15th.
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