Lando Norris may receive an unexpected advantage in the F1 title race this weekend as Red Bull considers an engine change for Max Verstappen at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix. Verstappen encountered power unit issues during Friday’s practice session, forcing him to switch to an older engine to continue running. While he managed to secure a strong position on the front row next to Norris, his performance in the race was hampered by reduced straight-line speed, especially during the critical Safety Car restart where he lost position to Carlos Sainz.
Throughout the race, Verstappen also faced challenges in his encounters with Norris, resulting in two separate incidents that added a total of 20 seconds in time penalties. Despite these setbacks, the three-time world champion still managed to secure a sixth-place finish. However, with Norris finishing second, Verstappen’s lead in the championship standings has been trimmed by a substantial 10 points.
To maintain their competitive edge in the title race, Red Bull is weighing the option of installing a new engine for Verstappen as they head into the final stretch of the season. A fresh engine would enhance Verstappen’s power output, potentially offsetting his recent struggles with straight-line speed. With four races remaining, Red Bull hopes this strategic move will keep them in contention as they vie for another championship title.
Given the overtaking potential on Brazil’s track, taking a grid penalty for an engine change could be a calculated risk for Red Bull. The high-speed opportunities in Sao Paulo present an ideal setting for Verstappen to make up ground, even if he starts further back on the grid. As the season nears its end, each race is pivotal, and this decision could significantly impact the title battle between Verstappen and Norris.