Max Verstappen to Start São Paulo Grand Prix from Pit-Lane with Fresh Engine and New Set-Up

Max Verstappen to Start São Paulo Grand Prix from Pit-Lane with Fresh Engine and New Set-Up

Max Verstappen will be starting the São Paulo Grand Prix from the pit-lane after qualifying 16th and making significant changes to his Red Bull car. He will have a fresh engine and a new set-up for the race at Interlagos, as he aims to close the 39-point gap to championship leader Lando Norris. Verstappen's car underwent major modifications in the garage, including fitting a new engine and a different floor, leading to the requirement to start from the pit-lane. This strategic move allows Verstappen to avoid potential incidents on the opening lap and benefit from the performance boost of a fresh engine. Despite the time disadvantage of starting from the pit-lane, he remains hopeful of a strong performance, especially if there is an early Safety Car period to bring him back into contention. Verstappen and Red Bull are looking to replicate his remarkable drive from last year's race at Interlagos, where he climbed from 17th to first in challenging conditions.