Verstappen given grid penalty after breaking MGU-K limit!

Red Bull has decided to use a third MGU-K power unit element on Max Verstappen’s car, giving the Dutchman a grid penalty, although it will have no impact on his grid slot.

Verstappen crashed out in FP3, which forced the team to change his gearbox, meaning he could not get on the track in qualifying, resigning him to the back of the grid.

Verstappen had previously only used one MGU-K this season, but Red Bull have decided to take the grid hit now, whilst Verstappen is starting at the back anyway.

The FIA released a statement, confirming the news: “After the qualifying session the motor generator unit-kinetic (MGU-K) of car number 33, driver Max Verstappen, was replaced for a new one which is the third of the two new motor generator units- kinetic (MGU-K) allowed for the 2018 Championship season.

"As this is not in conformity with Article 23.3a of the 2018 Formula One Sporting Regulations, I am referring this matter to the stewards for their consideration. The motor generator unit-kinetic (MGU-K) has been replaced with the approval of the FIA technical delegate following a written request from the team concerned, this being in accordance with Article 34.2 of the 2018 Formula One Sporting Regulations."