Verstappen explains engine change: 'It's not just the result'

Max Verstappen set the sixth-fastest time in the second free practice session, placing him behind the Mercedes cars of Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas. It makes little difference to the Dutchman, however, as he will start from the back of the grid for Sunday afternoon's race.

Red Bull Racing chooses to change the engine of the leader in the world championship this weekend. The grid penalty imposed on Verstappen at the Italian Grand Prix two weeks ago had already forced him back three places. Changing his engine now even means he will start from the back of the grid completely.

"It's not just the result. I said we would take everything into account, we also have the weather. We thought it would be best to take it here," Verstappen stated to Sky Sports afterwards. "We are just trying to make the best possible race car. I hope it works out, but let's wait and see tomorrow and see how the day is."

Verstappen expects a tough battle on Sunday. "In 2018 the gaps to the midfield were bigger. So it will be difficult to get through. If we didn't catch it here, we would have to catch it somewhere else. We will do our best to work our way up."