Ferrari considers Leclerc grid penalty practically unavoidable

For Charles Leclerc, the collision with Aston Martin driver Lance Stroll didn't just result in a DNF at the Hungaroring, a recent Ferrari investigation has revealed that the power unit may be written off, leaving the Monegasque with just one unsanctioned engine change for the second half of the season.

"Examination of the number 16 SF21 carried out yesterday in Maranello, revealed that on top of this, the engine was irreparably damaged and cannot be used again, following the impact from Lance Stroll’s Aston Martin", the Italian racing team revealed in a press release.

Grid penalty almost inevitable

A fourth engine change is illegal and will result in a grid penalty for the Ferrari driver. The team sees this as an extra blow for the driver: "This is a further blow for Scuderia Ferrari and the Monegasque driver. This damage has a financial impact and also racing ramifications."

"Over the remaining 12 race weekends this season, it is highly likely the team could be obliged to fit a fourth ICE to Charles’ SF21, thus incurring grid penalties", the team concludes. Carlos Sainz is also currently using his third PU of the season.