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Verstappen ‘could be slapped with penaltyMax ‘ handing Lando Norris title advantage
Max Verstappen may face a grid penalty for using a new power unit before the Formula 1 season concludes, potentially giving Lando Norris a significant edge in their championship battle. Currently, Verstappen and Norris are separated by 52 points, with just six races remaining, and given McLaren’s recent surge in performance, that gap could quickly diminish. Verstappen is currently experiencing a challenging phase, having not won in his last eight races.
Earlier this season, Verstappen encountered an unfortunate engine failure during free practice at the Canadian Grand Prix. This incident forced him to take a 10-place grid penalty at the Belgian Grand Prix because he had to switch to a new internal combustion engine, which was his fifth for the season—exceeding the allowed limit of four. Reports indicate that Verstappen might soon need a sixth engine, risking another grid penalty that would complicate his championship aspirations.
If Verstappen does indeed require a new engine, the Brazilian Grand Prix could be a strategic point for him to incur this penalty. The layout of the Interlagos circuit, particularly the long straight from Juncao to Turn One, allows for easier overtaking, making it an optimal venue for drivers to recover positions after a penalty. This scenario brings to mind the intense dynamics of the 2021 title race, where Lewis Hamilton faced a similar situation. He took an engine penalty before a sprint race and was later disqualified from qualifying, setting the stage for a challenging race day. Despite this, Hamilton, equipped with a fresh Mercedes engine, showcased his driving prowess by skillfully navigating through the field, even managing to overtake Verstappen in a dramatic contest that marked one of the highlights of his career.
The potential for Verstappen to face a grid penalty is significant, as it could fundamentally alter the competitive landscape of the championship. His current streak of eight races without a win contrasts sharply with the performance of McLaren, which has shown impressive form lately. Norris, in particular, has been benefiting from this momentum, positioning himself as a serious contender. If Verstappen finds himself starting further back on the grid due to a penalty, it could level the playing field and enhance Norris’s chances of closing the points gap.
As the season enters its final stretch, every race becomes increasingly crucial. Teams are under immense pressure to optimize their strategies and vehicle performance, while drivers are keenly aware of the implications of each decision made on and off the track. For Verstappen, managing the durability of
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