Max Verstappen will begin the 2025 São Paulo Grand Prix with a five-place grid penalty after Red Bull fitted his sixth internal combustion engine (ICE) of the season. FIA regulations allow only four engines per driver each year, and Verstappen has now exceeded this limit.
The penalty will be applied to the main race grid following Sunday’s qualifying session. It does not affect the sprint race, which takes place earlier in the weekend. Verstappen will drop five positions from wherever he qualifies for the main race.
This is Verstappen’s second engine-related penalty of the season. He previously received a 10-place grid drop at the Belgian Grand Prix for his first engine change over the allowed limit. Under Formula 1 rules, subsequent ICE changes incur a reduced penalty, explaining the five-place drop in São Paulo.
Red Bull hopes to limit the impact of the penalty on race day. The Brazilian circuit is known for its overtaking opportunities, which could allow Verstappen to recover positions despite the grid setback.
Verstappen remains a strong contender for the championship, and the team will focus on strategy and race pace to counter the penalty’s effect.
