Hamilton to start Brazilian GP from back after engine change

Ferrari has confirmed that Lewis Hamilton will start the Brazilian Grand Prix from the back of the grid after his new engine developed a problem in FP3 at Interlagos. Hamilton reported smoke in his cockpit during the session and returned to the pits for checks, completing only seven laps.

Ferrari has replaced the entire power unit fitted to his car ahead of qualifying, meaning Hamilton will take part in qualifying but serve an additional penalty on top of an existing 10-place grid penalty. Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez also face 30-place grid penalties for exceeding their engine component pools, while George Russell drops five places after a sixth ICE of the season.

The penalties could help Mercedes seal the 2026 constructors' title. The team will be crowned champions if it outscores Ferrari by three points or more in Sunday's race, which would be its first teams' championship since 2021.