Verstappen to start from back of grid in Brazil

The FIA has confirmed that Max Verstappen will start from the back of the grid at the Brazilian Grand Prix after exceeding his engine component allowance for the 2026 season. He has taken a fifth internal combustion engine, fifth turbocharger and fifth exhaust, which together add up to a 30-place grid penalty. Under the rules, drops of more than 15 places mean an automatic start from the back.

Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies said Verstappen had performed "miracles" from the rear of the grid at Interlagos in the past and expressed confidence he would do so again. Verstappen, a three-time winner in Brazil, has won three of the last four races and sits second in the drivers' standings, two points ahead of Lewis Hamilton.

Hamilton and Charles Leclerc will each serve 10-place penalties after taking a fifth ICE, while George Russell will drop five places after his sixth ICE of the campaign.