Sainz becomes fifth driver to take Belgian GP grid drop for power unit changes

Carlos Sainz is the latest driver to be given a grid penalty for Sunday’s Belgian Grand Prix, having taken on new power unit elements after Qualifying.

Williams have fitted a new Energy Store and Control Electronics unit to Sainz’s Mercedes-powered car – exceeding his allocation for the season on the latter point.

As per the regulations, the first time the allocation of any one of the elements is exceeded, a 10-place grid penalty will be applied, with the second time this occurs (and so on) resulting in a five-place grid drop – all penalties at the same event applying in a cumulative manner.

If a driver incurs a penalty exceeding 15 grid places, they will be required to start the race at the back of the field regardless.

Sainz, who originally qualified 15th, is now set to start the race from 19th, with several other drivers being handed penalties for similar power unit changes.

Indeed, McLaren’s Lando Norris, Red Bull’s Isack Hadjar, and Aston Martin pair Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll are also serving grid drops.