Max Verstappen could take a grid penalty at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix this weekend as Red Bull Racing are considering changing his engine, Afrosport reports.
The Dutch driver had to revert to an older engine after he encountered problems with his power unit during last Friday’s free practice session at the Mexico City Grand Prix.
He made good ground by taking pole position for Sunday’s race, even though he lost out to eventual winner Carlos Sainz after the Safety Car restart.
The three-time world champion ultimately finished sixth but saw his championship lead to Lando Norris reduce to 47 points after the McLaren driver finished second.
Red Bull are now considering giving him a new engine for the final four races as they look to stay in title contention and also considering the many overtaking opportunities prevented in Sao Paulo.
“We were nowhere near the two front teams, and I guess part of the problem is that Friday, we couldn’t drive because of the engine problems,” Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko told Motorsport.com.
“We have to do something, that’s clear. We also will have a change the engine because we had been so slow on the straight.
“This engine, which was in the car, was not supposed to be in the car, so most likely Brazil could happen.”
Verstappen is a two-time winner at the Autodromo de Interlagos, claiming victories in 2019 and 2023.
