With a new engine, Verstappen will be forced to start the race in São Paulo from the pit lane, since it is not permitted to replace parts on an F1 car without taking in a penalty as well, because the Parc Fermé rules come into effect after qualifying.

Not only will Verstappen start from the pit lane, but Yuki Tsunoda may also face the same fate. Adjustments are said to have been made to the Japanese driver’s car - including a new Honda engine. If this is the case, there will be no Red Bull Racing car on the starting grid later this Sunday.

However, it is entirely logical if the Austrian team decides to replace components on the cars. Max Verstappen could, for example, benefit from this at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.