Verstappen set for grid penalty at Monza

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner says it is “likely” that Max Verstappen will start at the back of the grid at this weekend’s Italian Grand Prix at Monza due to receiving a new engine.

At the Belgian GP at the weekend, Honda introduced a new spec power unit for Alexander Albon and Daniil Kvyat, with the other two drivers within their customer ranks, Pierre Gasly and Verstappen, to be given them the following week.

Nothing has been confirmed yet as to whether the new components will be implemented or not, but Horner reckons it’ll probably happen, resulting in a five-place grid penalty.

“Most likely. We’ll make that decision during the week. But most likely we’ll discuss with Honda and see what their thoughts are,” he told Motorsport.com about the new engine.

“I think it’s encouraging from what we saw on Friday, the data we got from Kvyat running the new engine, that progress is definitely being made and delivering what is expected.”

Verstappen himself, meanwhile, has already come to terms with the possibility of starting near the back of the grid, and doesn’t appear to be too bothered as he believes he can overtake the majority of the drivers ahead.

“I think it can be alright to overtake,” he said when asked by Motorsport.com about moving up the grid.

“Nothing is confirmed yet about an engine penalty, but even if you start from the back I don’t think it’s a big deal.

“We all know Ferrari is going to be really quick there, and if you start from the back you probably won’t catch the top four. Everything behind that I think it’s possible to catch up with.”

Verstappen had a torrid time at the last race at Spa as he collided with Kimi Raikkonen on the opening lap, suffering enough damage in the process that he was forced to retire.

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