Vettel confirms: Grid penalty due to new Mercedes engine

Sebastian Vettel will have to drive from the back of the grid to finish in the points during the United States Grand Prix. The Aston Martin-driver will be put back several places after qualifying because of an engine change. That was confirmed by the four times world champion on Thursday at the press conference.

"We are heading into a difficult weekend, we are changing the engine and therefore we've got to have a penalty," Vettel told Autosport. com and others . Still, the German is confident of an enjoyable weekend. "I think we can be strong here. How strong? We will see."

It is not yet clear how many parts Vettel will change. It seems certain that the internal combustion engine (ICE) will be replaced, as Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas were forced to change this component earlier. Vettel will be penalised at least ten places.

In the world championship, Vettel is in twelfth place with 35 points. His lead over teammate Lance Stroll is nine points.