Max Verstappen faced a challenging start to the Grand Prix weekend in Mexico City, as his car experienced engine troubles that cut his second free practice session (FP2) short. Frustrated by the limited time on track, Verstappen described the day as “useless” since he couldn’t log many kilometers at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. The question of a grid penalty soon resurfaced, a topic the Dutch driver hopes to avoid for the remainder of the weekend.
Red Bull Racing’s team principal, Christian Horner, acknowledged that a grid penalty is a possibility for Verstappen, considering the technical issues with his RB20. Addressing concerns ahead of FP2, Horner remarked, “I don’t think you’re ever really safe,” emphasizing that even minor mechanical setbacks can have significant impacts in Formula One. According to Horner, the matter largely rests with Honda, Red Bull’s engine partner, to determine the reliability of their engines through the rest of the season.
While Verstappen tried to downplay worries about a penalty this weekend, Horner highlighted the ever-present risks. “You’re always on the limit,” he noted, reflecting the high-stakes nature of pushing machinery to its peak performance in Formula One. Despite efforts to minimize disruptions, Horner admitted that avoiding grid penalties can be challenging as teams aim for maximum output across the championship’s final races.
The Mexico City track, notorious for its altitude and tough conditions, further compounds these challenges. High altitude affects engine performance and cooling, putting additional strain on components, which can lead to unexpected problems. This reality makes Verstappen’s team particularly cautious, as even small issues can escalate into potential penalties.
For Red Bull and Verstappen, managing these technical uncertainties while maintaining a competitive edge will be crucial as the season nears its close. With their eyes set on retaining top performance, Red Bull will likely collaborate closely with Honda to navigate these final races and secure the best possible outcomes without incurring penalties.