Engine changes send Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton to back of Sao Paulo Grand Prix grid; Charles Leclerc among penalties

Engine changes bring penalties

Hamilton and Verstappen will start from the back after taking new engines. Hamilton initially faced a 10-place penalty for exceeding his power-unit allowance, but his new internal combustion engine failed during final practice on Saturday.

Red Bull fitted Verstappen with an all-new engine after finding problems following Friday practice. The article says both drivers will start at the back of the grid. Leclerc will start 14th after qualifying fourth, while Russell drops from second to seventh. The article says Leclerc’s penalty is larger because Ferrari has now exceeded the four-engine seasonal limit on his car; Russell had already gone beyond it.

Rain shapes race outlook

Rain began about an hour before qualifying, making the session wet. Forecasts indicate it could continue overnight and return at any point on race day.

Sao Paulo race continues

Formula 1 president and chief executive Stefano Domenicali said the race is an important part of the sport’s history and future. He said a five-year extension will keep racing in Sao Paulo until 2035. Domenicali said the event’s continued success and excitement showed why it had a special place on the calendar, adding that the agreement affirmed Formula 1’s commitment to Brazil.