Gearbox changes for Russian GP; Verstappen included

After the free practice sessions, the FIA always announces whether any parts have been replaced before the next race weekend. The Russian Grand Prix has turned out to be a popular race for the teams to change gears.

The fact that many teams choose to make this switch right now is due to the large number of drop-outs in the race at Mugello. The drivers who did not make it to the finish there are allowed to change gears without being hit by a penalty.

One of the drivers who is therefore getting a new gearbox is Max Verstappen. This also applies to Carlos Sainz, Lance Stroll and Kevin Magnussen. They were all involved in an incident a fortnight ago in which the rear (where the gearbox is located) of their car was hit or damaged.

For Pierre Gasly, there is a more regular gearbox change. He used his previous gearbox six races in a row and because this season's championship counts eighteen races, he too can have a new one fitted without penalty.