World Championship leader Max Verstappen will take a five-place Belgian GP grid penalty after he exceeded the regulation gearbox allowance.
The Red Bull supremo has won the last seven races, opening up a 110-point championship lead, with the team enjoying a record 12-race winning streak.
"I do apologise for it" ?
Lando Norris says it wasn't his intention to break Max Verstappen's Hungarian Grand Prix winners trophy ? pic.twitter.com/AGdtJyeWmI
— Sky Sports F1 (@SkySportsF1) July 27, 2023
It is understood that the FIA has not yet officially confirmed the regulation, highlighting that the unauthorised gearbox change results in an immediate penalty. But Sky Sports News this morning reported that Red Bull took the decision.
The penalty applies to Sunday's race, with qualification taking place on Friday as Spa-Francorchamps hosts the season's third Sprint weekend.
The ruling stipulates that each car is limited to a maximum of four gearboxes throughout the season. The two-time World Championship winner becomes the first driver to require a fifth assembly this year.
? MAX VERSTAPPEN WILL GET A 5 PLACE GRID PENALTY FOR THIS SUNDAY'S RACE!
He is taking a new gearbox!
[@ErikvHaren] #F1 #BelgianGP pic.twitter.com/s8tTr7UW7M
— RBR Daily (@RBR_Daily) July 28, 2023
Following qualification, Verstappen will line up no higher than sixth on the grid for the highly-anticipated Grand Prix.
Rain is forecasted to affect today's qualifying session, which is set to get underway at 4 pm.
Spectators are also anticipating difficult weather conditions for Sunday's race, meaning Verstappen will have the most challenging of tasks to maintain his astonishing winning streak.
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