Verstappen to Start Sao Paulo Grand Prix from Pit Lane After Major Car Changes
Reigning Formula One world champion Max Verstappen will begin Sunday’s Sao Paulo Grand Prix from the pit lane after his Red Bull team implemented sweeping changes to his car overnight.
The strategic move follows a disappointing qualifying session that left the Dutch driver 16th on the grid. With his championship hopes fading, the team opted to fit a new engine and power unit components, triggering the pit lane start under FIA regulations.
Verstappen, who is 39 points behind championship leader Lando Norris with four races remaining, had already dismissed his title chances after qualifying. However, he has proven his ability to fight through the field before, having won the 2024 Brazilian Grand Prix from 17th on the grid.
McLaren’s Lando Norris will start from pole position, with his teammate and closest rival Oscar Piastri lining up fourth.
Reuters