Max Verstappen will start the Formula 1 Sao Paulo Grand Prix from the pit lane after receiving an engine change as well as set-up changes under parc ferme.
The Dutchman qualified a dismal 16th at the Interlagos circuit, completing Red Bull’s first double Q1 exit since 2006.
Verstappen struggled to find grip during the session, and despite valiant attempts to get himself into Q2, the RB21 did not have the performance to free him, nor team-mate Yuki Tsunoda, from the elmination zone.
The seismic nature of Verstappen’s downfall in qualifying has left the Milton Keynes-based squad feeling there is little choice except to make drastic changes.
![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)
Not only has Verstappen been handed a new Honda power unit for the race, but also a raft of different parts.
It is believed that the RB21 had been using the United States Grand Prix iteration of the revised floor, and with Verstappen complaining of “sliding around a lot” and being unable to push, it appears that the Mexico version has now be fitted to the car.
After qualifying on Saturday, Verstappen said that “nothing really seems to work” when it came to improving the car, and said he could “forget about” his outside chances of retaining the Drivers’ Championship.
READ MORE – Max Verstappen writes off F1 title hopes amid bewilderment at shock Brazil GP Q1 elimination
![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)
![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-360x180.webp)
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