Verstappen set for Sao Paulo GP grid penalty after power unit change

Max Verstappen is set to face a five-place grid drop at the upcoming Sao Paulo Grand Prix after Red Bull elected to change his power unit for the sixth time this season.

After the Dutchman struggled for pace last time out in Mexico, he will be hoping to take a step forward and close the gap to rivals Ferrari and McLaren with a new internal combustion engine (ICE) this weekend.

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With just four rounds remaining, the Brazilian circuit could offer the best overtaking opportunities to limit the damage brought about by the grid penalty, which will only affect the Grand Prix as opposed to the Sprint.

Each season, drivers are permitted to use four internal combustion engines – Verstappen exceeded this allocation previously in Belgium, where he served a 10-place grid penalty. As this is his second infringement, the consequence is a five-place drop.

A document published by the FIA also confirmed that the reigning world champion will use a new exhaust system, but will not incur a penalty for this as he is still within the allocation of eight.

The FIA stated: "The internal combustion engine used by Max Verstappen will be the sixth (6th) of the four (4) new internal combustion engines allowed for the 2024 Championship season and this is not in conformity with Article 28.2 of the 2024 Formula One Sporting Regulations."

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In addition, his Red Bull team mate Sergio Perez is racing with a new chassis this weekend as they hope to reclaim P2 in the constructors' standings – they are currently 25 points behind Ferrari.

Verstappen will have a chance to extend his record of winning every Sprint in 2024 before the penalty is enforced in the Grand Prix, which could help him extend his lead over Lando Norris in the drivers' championship.

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Getting on top of their inconsistent pace will be a priority for Red Bull this weekend, especially with McLaren bringing further upgrades to their rear wing as they target their first constructors' title since 1998.