Sun Nov 03 12:25:05 UTC 2024: ## Verstappen Hit with Five-Place Grid Penalty for New Engine in Brazil

Max Verstappen will start Sunday’s Sao Paulo Grand Prix from a five-place grid penalty after Red Bull installed a new engine in his car. The move comes after Verstappen’s disappointing sixth-place finish in Mexico, where a lack of engine performance was cited as a factor. The penalty will boost Lando Norris’ chances of closing the gap in the Drivers’ Championship, which he reduced to 47 points in Mexico.

Verstappen’s new engine was fitted during Friday’s only practice session at Interlagos, ahead of Sprint Qualifying. Although the penalty only applies to Sunday’s full-length race, it could make Verstappen’s path to victory more difficult. However, Red Bull’s decision to take the penalty in Brazil is likely due to the track’s potential for overtaking.

The Sao Paulo Grand Prix marks the end of Formula 1’s Americas triple header, with every session live on Sky Sports F1. The Sprint Qualifying session will be held on Friday at 6:30pm, with the Sprint race on Saturday at 2pm.

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