Verstappen explains Red Bull's Russia engine change

Max Verstappen has explained Red Bull's reasoning for reverting to Renault's 'B-spec' power unit in Russia, suggesting it would not be able to handle atmospheric conditions at upcoming races in Mexico and Brazil. Verstappen scored an impressive second-place finish last time out in Singapore, but is set to start from the back of the grid in Sochi.

Verstappen and team-mate Daniel Ricciardo were fitted with Renault's latest offering in Monza and Marina Bay, the Dutchman crossing the line third in Italy – but later demoted to fifth – and following race-winner Lewis Hamilton home in Singapore.

However, the pair will take grid penalties this weekend, with Red Bull opting to do so at a race that they might not have expected to compete with Mercedes and Ferrari at.

"Our C-spec cannot run in high altitude in Mexico and Brazil, so we always knew since we took the C-spec on that we had to take another B at one point," Verstappen said.

"I think this is the best place to do it, also to have more spare parts in case something breaks down."

Bulls are back ???? and ready to rock Russia ???????? #RussianGP pic.twitter.com/p3FBByOCYh — Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) September 27, 2018

Ricciardo spoke glowingly of the upgraded engine, suggesting it had given him increased confidence about joining Renault in 2019, but Verstappen was more reserved in his praise.

"The C-spec has a bit more power in qualifying, but it's the same or maybe a little slower in the race," he said.

"But it's all about qualifying. We would always want to take another tenth or one and a half tenths if the engine gives it to you. That's why we decided to take the C-spec."

Although the Red Bulls will start towards the back of the grid, Verstappen does not expect to be held up too much by the midfield in Sochi.

"Back to fifth and sixth normally, that's our target. I think pace-wise, we anyway should get there," Verstappen said.

"It just depends how easily you can overtake on this track. We'll focus of course maybe a little bit more on a long run than a short run, and then try to set up the car in a good way."

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