Sao Paulo Grand Prix: Verstappen to Start from Pit Lane
Max Verstappen will begin the Sao Paulo Grand Prix from the pit lane after Red Bull Racing opted to install a new power unit and implement suspension setup changes. This decision comes following a disappointing qualifying session in which both Verstappen and Yuki Tsunoda failed to advance beyond Q1, marking the first such occurrence for Red Bull since the 2006 Japanese Grand Prix.
The team initially aimed to maintain its current power unit through the remainder of the season, but a starting position of 16th prompted a reevaluation. The necessity to alter the suspension setup, which requires breaking parc ferme conditions, led to the decision to introduce the new power unit.
Verstappen’s new power unit installation is effectively a strategic move, as the setup changes alone require a pit lane start. With three races remaining in the season, Verstappen, currently 39 points behind championship leader Lando Norris—who starts from pole—seeks to maximize his chances of closing the gap.
Additionally, Esteban Ocon will also begin the race from the pit lane after taking a new internal combustion engine, following a qualifying performance that left him in 17th position.
