Source – Newsweek
In the drivers’ championship, Max Verstappen has a sizable lead going into the 14th round of the Formula One season at the renowned Spa-Francorchamps circuit.
Max Verstappen’s prospects for a successful Belgian Grand Prix weekend might be severely impacted due to an impending grid penalty. The Dutch driver, who has already utilized four internal combustion engines (ICE), turbochargers, MGU-Hs, and MGU-K units, as well as two control electronics and energy stores, is now facing the consequence of exceeding his allocation.
Ahead of the race weekend, it was clear that Verstappen was on the verge of a grid drop. Red Bull has decided to take the penalty for the event at Spa-Francorchamps, meaning Verstappen will be equipped with a new ICE. Consequently, he is expected to start the Belgian Grand Prix 10 places further back on the grid than his qualifying position.
Spa-Francorchamps, known for its 7.004km circuit and frequent overtaking opportunities, has often been a strategic choice for teams to incur engine penalties. This decision, while potentially advantageous in terms of strategy, might hinder Verstappen’s chances of maintaining his lead.
Despite entering the race weekend with a substantial 76-point lead in the drivers’ championship over Lando Norris, this penalty could see that lead diminish as the competition intensifies heading into the summer break. The Belgian Grand Prix will now pose an even greater challenge for Verstappen as he aims to mitigate the impact of his grid penalty and maintain his championship advantage.
