Sainz gets 20-place Suzuka grid penalty

Toro Rosso's Carlos Sainz is set to start from the back of the field in Sunday's Grand Prix in Japan after taking on several new engine components, at the cost of a 20-place grid drop.
Sainz has moved on to a sixth MGU-H in Suzuka, as well as a fifth internal combustion engine and a fifth turbo. The first change comes with a 10-place grid drop, while the ICE and turbo each incur five-place drops.
The Spaniard's penalties were confirmed shortly after a heavy crash in the opening practice session, which caused extensive damage to his Toro Rosso.
Alongside Sainz, several other drivers have taken on new components this weekend - including Ferrari's Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Raikkonen and Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas. All four are within their allocation of four components for the season, but any further changes would result in grid penalties.
WATCH: Sainz hits the barriers in FP1
Next Up
Related Articles
UnlockedHow did McLaren and Aston Martin make big gains in Hungary?
Lagrue hired to lead Red Bull Junior Programme in 2027
Alpine in 'development war' with Racing Bulls – Nielsen
Haas drivers offer verdict on Hungarian GP
The incredible statistics behind the 2026 F1 season to date
Verstappen praises Antonelli’s first half of 2026