Trouble mounts for Max Verstappen as grid penalty looms with championship at stake

Max Verstappen's quest for a fourth consecutive Formula 1 Drivers' Championship is under significant strain, as a looming grid penalty threatens to derail his campaign. The Red Bull driver, currently leading the championship standings, has already faced a 10-place grid drop at the Belgian Grand Prix due to exceeding his internal combustion engine (ICE) allowance for the 2024 season.

With six races remaining, Verstappen's title defense could be further complicated by another power unit-related penalty. Each driver in Formula 1 is allowed four internal combustion engines throughout the season, but Verstappen has already used five, triggering an earlier grid penalty. 

Former F1 driver Christijan Albers believes Verstappen may have to take another engine before the season concludes, which would result in at least a five-place grid drop. Albers sees the upcoming Brazilian Grand Prix as the most strategic race for Verstappen to serve the penalty.

“That could be a hit,” Albers stated in an interview with De Telegraaf. “Then I would get it in Brazil, one hundred per cent. You’re not going to do that in Austin. I would get it in Brazil, that’s better with that long straight, and that’s better with the DRS.”

Why Verstappen could take a bait in Interlagos?

Brazil’s Interlagos Circuit is known for its long straights and overtaking opportunities, making it a more forgiving track for drivers recovering from grid penalties. This could play into Verstappen’s favour, as he would need to maximize the Drag Reduction System (DRS) zones to climb through the field if he starts further down the grid.

Adding to Verstappen's challenges is the resurgence of McLaren's Lando Norris, who has significantly cut Verstappen's lead in the championship standings. After Norris's dominant victory in Singapore, where he finished a full 20 seconds ahead of the Red Bull driver, Verstappen's lead has dwindled to just 52 points. This marks an unexpected turn in what initially seemed like a smooth ride to a fourth title for Verstappen, with the Dutchman now facing increased competition as the season nears its climax.