Grid penalties hit Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen at Interlagos ahead of the Sao Paulo Grand Prix.
Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton and Red Bull rival Max Verstappen will face a dramatic setback at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix this Sunday, starting their races from the very back of the grid due to crucial engine penalties.
The unexpected grid shake-up intensified on Saturday morning at the Interlagos circuit when Hamilton experienced a critical power-unit failure during final practice, forcing Ferrari to install an entirely new system, according to information published by BBC.
Alongside the front-running championship figures, Mercedes driver George Russell and Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc also received significant grid drops, setting the stage for a high-stakes, unpredictable race weekend in Brazil.
Power unit failures force major grid penalties
Hamilton initially faced a 10-place penalty for exceeding his season power-unit allowance, but the unexpected failure of his newly fitted internal combustion engine during Saturday practice prompted Ferrari to change the complete unit.
Red Bull encountered similar mechanical hurdles after Friday practice, leading the team to fit an all-new engine for Verstappen, who famously triumphed from 17th on the grid in a previous wet race at Sao Paulo.
Mercedes and Ferrari face additional grid drops
Mercedes driver George Russell and Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc also received notable grid penalties ahead of Sunday's main event after fitting new internal combustion components.
Leclerc received a 10-place penalty because it marked the first time Ferrari exceeded the limit of four engines per season, whereas Russell received a five-place penalty after already surpassing that strict regulatory threshold.
Interlagos circuit extends Formula 1 contract
Amid the technical drama on the track, Formula 1 announced on Saturday that the historic Interlagos circuit secured a major contract extension to host the grand prix until 2035.
F1 president and chief executive officer Stefano Domenicali praised the extraordinary passion of Brazilian fans, emphasizing that the long-term agreement underlines the sport's firm commitment to the region.
Challenging weather conditions forecast for race day
Qualifying is set to take place under wet conditions, with rain starting shortly before the session and forecast to continue intermittently through the evening and into race day.
Fans can follow live commentary on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, alongside live text updates on the BBC Sport website and mobile application, as drivers navigate the treacherous weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Hamilton and Verstappen starting from the back in Brazil?
Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen are starting from the back of the grid at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix due to engine failures that forced their teams to exceed permitted power-unit allowances.
What grid penalties did Leclerc and Russell receive?
Charles Leclerc received a 10-place grid penalty for exceeding his season engine limit for the first time, while George Russell received a five-place penalty.
Until what year has Interlagos extended its F1 contract?
Formula 1 announced that the Interlagos circuit in Sao Paulo has extended its contract to host the grand prix until the year 2035.
