Verstappen set for NEW FIA penalty at Brazilian Grand Prix

Red Bull star Max Verstappen could be in line for further punishment from the FIA at this weekend's Brazilian Grand Prix.

After engine issues plagued the three-time Formula 1 world champion at the Mexican Grand Prix last time out, his team were forced to change back to an old engine in their pool, but this has its consequences.

F1 HEADLINES: Horner under major pressure as Red Bull suffer DEMOTION after FIA punishment

READ MORE: Mercedes announce Hamilton release ahead of Brazilian GP

After doing so, Sky Sports commentator David Croft hinted that Red Bull’s engine component stock is now critically low for the remaining four rounds of the 2024 season, suggesting the team may soon need to install fresh engine parts for Verstappen.

This would push Verstappen above his allowable component limit, resulting in a grid penalty under FIA regulations.

READ MORE: F1 star drops huge 2025 hint after Red Bull 'OFFER'

Will Max Verstappen take a penalty in Brazil?

Given that Brazil offers a better overtaking environment than the tighter circuits in Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi, Red Bull may opt to introduce the new parts at Interlagos if a change becomes necessary.

The power unit issues were evident right away during the Mexican Grand Prix weekend, where Verstappen endured a difficult start on Friday.

Struggling, Verstappen was unable to set a lap time in FP2, forcing Red Bull to make significant adjustments to the car before the final practice session and qualifying.

READ MORE: Hamilton DELIGHTED as Mercedes unveil new car

The team even invoked an overnight curfew to complete the repairs, though no penalties were applied as they remained within their permitted curfew exceptions.

While Verstappen’s most recent engine change avoided a penalty by reverting to an older power unit already within his component pool, the current shortage leaves Red Bull with little margin if further issues arise.

With Verstappen leading Norris by 47 points with only four Grands Prix remaining, every point, penalty and position could prove critical in the 2024 title fight.

READ MORE: FIA issue official statement as TWO teams guilty of cost cap breach

Related

More F1 news

Latest F1 news

FIA confirm Red Bull F1 changes as Max Verstappen frustration boils over at Japanese Grand Prix

• Today 08:52

FIA announce Lewis Hamilton punishment verdict after Max Verstappen incident at Japanese Grand Prix

• 3 hours ago

What Max Verstappen needs to turn 2026 around: F1 champion’s brutal four-word advice for Red Bull

• Today 06:45

Adrian Newey defence of Max Verstappen surfaces after media explosion: 'He's misunderstood'

• 15 minutes ago

Max Verstappen ban on British journalist angers media as 'walk out' suggestion raised

• Yesterday 17:35

F1 journalist kicked out by Max Verstappen breaks silence over Japanese Grand Prix storm

• Yesterday 16:07