Dutch Formula One world champion Max Verstappen received a 10-place grid penalty at the Belgian Grand Prix on Friday due to an engine change. Red Bull installed a fifth internal combustion engine in Verstappen's car, exceeding the four allowed per season, resulting in the penalty under current regulations.
The decision came after Red Bull experienced three races without a win, prompting the team to make the engine change. Verstappen, anticipating the penalty, mentioned on Thursday that he expected to incur it, noting that some tracks are more favorable for such a penalty than others.
"Some tracks naturally are a bit better than others (to incur this penalty). Of course, on a street circuit, you wouldn't want to have an engine penalty. So, yeah, most likely it will be here," the 26-year-old commented, acknowledging Spa as a suitable venue for the penalty.
Verstappen, who aims for his fourth consecutive win at the iconic Spa racecourse on Sunday, remains cautious about his chances this year. He stated, "If you look at our last few races where we haven't particularly been the fastest, I wouldn't say that with 10 places extra we have a chance of winning. But, again, a race can always be turned upside down with moments." Currently, Verstappen leads the overall championship standings by 76 points over his closest rival, Lando Norris of McLaren.
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