By Score More
Max Verstappen, the reigning Formula 1 world champion, is inching closer to a potential grid penalty after Red Bull opted to install a new gearbox ahead of the upcoming Italian Grand Prix at Monza.
In preparation for the race weekend, Red Bull has fitted Verstappen’s car, designated with the #1, with a new gearbox case, cassette, driveline, gear change components, and various auxiliary parts. These changes are critical as Formula 1 regulations allow drivers to use only a limited number of these components without incurring penalties.
Currently, Verstappen has already used three gearbox casings and four drivelines this season. The latest changes bring him to his fourth gearbox casing and fifth driveline. Should Verstappen require a sixth example of these components, he could face a grid penalty, potentially impacting his starting position in future races.
However, it’s important to note that the rules regarding gearboxes have evolved. Unlike in previous years, gearboxes no longer need to last a set number of races, and teams can reuse old parts as needed. This flexibility may play a crucial role in Red Bull’s strategy moving forward.
Verstappen’s teammate, Sergio Perez, is also on his fifth driveline, while McLaren’s Oscar Piastri has taken a fourth example of each gearbox component.
On the engine front, several drivers, including George Russell, Lewis Hamilton, Lando Norris, and Fernando Alonso, have taken new internal combustion engines, turbochargers, MGU-H, and MGU-K components without incurring penalties. Additionally, Valtteri Bottas, Zhou Guanyu, Kevin Magnussen, and Nico Hulkenberg have all installed new exhaust systems, with each driver using their fifth of the season, out of the eight allowed.
As the Formula 1 season progresses, managing these technical components will be crucial for teams, especially with the potential penalties that could arise from exceeding the allowed limits. For Verstappen, who is currently leading the championship, the decisions made in the coming races could have a significant impact on his quest for another title.