FIA confirm Max Verstappen engine change after...

FIA confirm Max Verstappen engine change after… read more be

Formula 1’s governing body, the FIA, has officially confirmed that Max Verstappen’s Red Bull will run with a fresh set of power unit components at the upcoming Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. The reigning World Champion has taken a range of new engine elements ahead of the fifth round of the 2025 season at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. Joining Verstappen in these changes are fellow Honda-powered drivers Yuki Tsunoda, Isack Hadjar, and Liam Lawson, who have all fitted the same components to their respective cars.

In a document released by the FIA, it was stated that Verstappen’s car is now equipped with a new internal combustion engine (ICE), turbocharger, MGU-H, MGU-K, and a new exhaust system. These changes are well within the limits established by FIA regulations, meaning Verstappen and the other Honda-powered drivers won’t face any grid penalties.

Each of these components has a permitted usage limit over the course of a season—some can be changed up to four times, while others are allowed eight changes. As all drivers involved have not yet reached their respective limits, the new parts have been introduced without any breach of the sporting code.

Given that the Jeddah Corniche Circuit is one of the most physically demanding tracks on the calendar, the decision to swap out key engine parts is considered a strategic one. With four intense race weekends already completed in 2025, teams are opting for preventative maintenance to reduce the risk of performance drop-offs or potential failures as the season progresses.

Red Bull and Honda seem to be taking a proactive approach. Rather than pushing the original power units further, they’re opting for fresh components now to maintain reliability and pace in a championship that spans 24 races. This move also aligns with broader engine strategy, as early part replacements often help teams avoid penalties during more critical parts of the season.

It’s not just the Honda-powered teams making such updates. Alpine drivers Pierre Gasly and Jack Doohan have also made power unit changes ahead of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. While their specific component swaps differ slightly, the motive appears to be similar—managing engine life and optimizing performance in one of the calendar’s more taxing races.

However, there are some concerns emerging for a few of the drivers. While Verstappen and most of the Honda-powered group are still on their first components of the year, Liam Lawson and Jack Doohan have already reached their second MGU-H and turbocharger. With only four of each component allowed throughout the season, these early second installations could put them at risk of incurring grid penalties later in the year if further changes become necessary.

Despite these changes, Verstappen remains focused on the task ahead in Jeddah. The Dutchman will be looking to rebound from a disappointing sixth-place finish in the previous race and close the gap to current championship leaders Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. A strong performance in Saudi Arabia could be key in keeping his title hopes alive early in the season.

The move to install new engine parts also signals Red Bull’s commitment to maintaining peak performance. With such a long and competitive season ahead, managing engine wear while staying within regulatory limits is a fine balancing act—and one that could make all the difference in a tightly contested championship battle.

As the teams take to the streets of Jeddah, all eyes will be on how these changes impact performance, particularly for Verstappen as he looks to mount a serious challenge and reassert his domina

nce on the F1 grid.