Championship Leader Takes Strategic Engine Penalty at Interlagos, While Perez Seeks Fresh Start with Chassis Swap
Max Verstappen will face a grid penalty at the Brazilian Grand Prix this weekend, as the reigning champion is set to use his sixth internal combustion engine (ICE) of the season, exceeding the four-engine limit allowed by FIA regulations. The decision, announced by FIA technical delegate Jo Bauer, marks Verstappen’s second engine breach of the season after taking a 10-place penalty in Belgium for his fifth engine. According to the rules, Verstappen’s subsequent breach will result in a five-place grid drop.
With a 47-point lead over McLaren’s Lando Norris and four rounds left—including two sprint races—Verstappen remains in a strong position to defend his title. The decision to take the penalty at São Paulo’s Interlagos circuit is strategic, as its layout is favorable for overtaking, providing Verstappen a better chance to climb the grid.
Meanwhile, Sergio Perez, Verstappen’s Red Bull teammate who has been struggling with form, will undergo a chassis swap in an effort to reset his performance. Red Bull’s chief engineer, Paul Monaghan, confirmed the change, explaining that Perez requested the switch back to an older chassis. “It’s an old one, not a newly fabricated one,” Monaghan clarified, adding, “The boys got a bit of work, but they didn’t mind.”
With 120 points still up for grabs in the remaining races, Verstappen’s engine penalty may shake up the field at Interlagos, offering competitors like Norris a shot at the podium. All eyes will be on Verstappen and Perez as they navigate this pivotal weekend in the title race.
