P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen will be hamstrung in the Sao Paulo Grand Prix at Interlagos with a grid drop.
Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko confirmed that Max Verstappen will receive an F1 grid penalty during the Sao Paulo Grand Prix. Verstappen faced engine issues in previous races, leading to the use of a sixth internal combustion engine this season, exceeding the permitted four. The penalty will only impact the main race on Sunday, not the sprint race, as seen with Liam Lawson in the United States Grand Prix. Marko revealed in his Speedweek column that Verstappen had to switch to a different engine in Mexico due to reaching the end of its life, affecting the car’s performance. Red Bull is exploring options but will inevitably change the engine in Brazil. Verstappen’s grid drop at Sao Paulo remains uncertain, with a potential five-place demotion for a single ICE change or starting from the rear for a full power unit change. Despite the penalty, Verstappen leads the world championship by 47 points over Lando Norris, with significant points still available in the remaining races of the season.
