P1racenews AI automatic summary:
With six rounds of the 2024 F1 season to run, it is almost inevitable that Max Verstappen will incur a grid penalty for another power unit change. However, where will Red Bull take the hit?
Max Verstappen faces a second power unit penalty in the F1 season, forcing him and Red Bull to carefully plan when to incur the penalty. The previous penalty was due to an early engine change at the Belgian Grand Prix, resulting in a 10-place grid drop. With limited power unit components, choosing the right race to change the engine and accept another penalty is crucial. The Sao Paulo Grand Prix seems like the most strategic choice, offering overtaking opportunities and a shorter time for the new unit to run before the season’s end. This decision could give Verstappen a fresher power unit for a potential title fight that may come down to the wire. Additionally, his main rival, Lando Norris, is also on the brink of a grid penalty due to using the maximum allowed components. Both drivers must navigate the penalty system smartly to maximize their chances in the championship battle.
