Breaking: FIA confirm Max Verstappen engine change for Saudi GP due to…read more
FIA Confirms Max Verstappen’s Engine Changes Ahead of Saudi Arabian Grand Prix
Formula 1’s governing body, the FIA, has officially confirmed that Max Verstappen will be running with several new engine components during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. The reigning World Champion, alongside his RB-powered peers Yuki Tsunoda, Isack Hadjar, and Liam Lawson, has had several updates applied to his Red Bull Racing car’s power unit.
According to an FIA technical document released ahead of the race weekend, Verstappen has been fitted with a new internal combustion engine (ICE), a fresh turbocharger, new MGU-H and MGU-K units, and a new exhaust system. These changes fall within the limits outlined by the FIA’s sporting regulations for the 2025 season, which means Verstappen will not receive a grid penalty. These components are allowed to be replaced a limited number of times throughout the season—typically up to four times for major components such as the ICE, MGU-H, MGU-K, and turbocharger, and up to eight times for parts like the exhaust.
The decision to install fresh components comes after the first four rounds of the 24-race calendar have already taken a toll on power units across the grid. The Jeddah street circuit is known for its high-speed layout and demanding conditions, making it a strategic venue to introduce new engine elements. This approach is likely intended to maintain performance and reliability throughout the intense schedule ahead.
In addition to Verstappen and his Red Bull team-mates, Alpine drivers Pierre Gasly and Jack Doohan have also made similar component changes for the Saudi weekend. While most of the involved drivers are only on their first or second use of certain engine parts, there are a few early warning signs. Both Liam Lawson and Jack Doohan are already on their second MGU-H and turbocharger of the season, putting them halfway through their allocation with 19 races still to go. If any driver exceeds the allowed number of engine elements, they will face grid penalties later in the season.
All four Honda-powered cars—Verstappen’s Red Bull, Tsunoda’s RB, as well as Hadjar and Lawson’s machines—have received the same component upgrades simultaneously. This coordinated strategy suggests Honda is proactively managing the performance and lifespan of their power units to avoid any reliability concerns as the season progresses.
For Verstappen, the timing of this engine refresh could be key. After a disappointing sixth-place finish in the previous round, the Dutch driver will be aiming to return to the podium in Saudi Arabia. He currently trails McLaren drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri in the drivers’ championship standings and is looking to close the gap with a strong performance on the Jeddah street circuit.
The strategic engine changes, aligned with FIA regulations and timed before one of the most demanding races on the calendar, demonstrate how teams are thinking long-term in their approach to the 2025 campaign. Verstappen’s bid to regain momentum starts now, with fresh hardware under the hood and a clear goal of challenging for victory in Saudi Arabia.
