Horner: "Verstappen could have finished the season without engine change"

Max Verstappen wouldn't have to start from the back of the grid in the Russian Grand Prix if his engine hadn't been totaled at Silverstone. That is what Red Bull Racing team principal Christian Horner says.

"If Max had not lost his power unit at Silverstone, he could have come through the season without a grid penalty for replacing the engine," Horner said in conversation with Sky Sports.

Verstappen unlikely to play big role in qualifying

Sochi is in all likelihood the best opportunity for Verstappen to take the penalty. The track allows for good overtaking and by replacing the engine the Dutchman is not suffering any additional pain as a result of his grid penalty following the Monza incident.

As a result, Horner says he won't be taking any risks in qualifying. "He won't play a big role in qualifying, so hopefully Sergio Perez can qualify as high as possible," said the Red Bull team boss.