HOCKENHEIM: Australian Daniel Ricciardo is set to start Sunday’s German Formula One Grand Prix from the back of the grid due to engine penalties.
The governing FIA announced today that Red Bull had changed the kinetic motor generator unit, energy store, and control electronics on his car.
All the changes breach the regulations governing how many elements a driver can use during a season and trigger automatic penalties.
Ricciardo had recognised yesterday that he faced a major drop, but was optimistic he would be able to limit the damage at a circuit with plenty of overtaking possibilities.
The changes will also give him a boost ahead of next week’s Hungarian Grand Prix, a race that should play much more to his car’s strengths.
The Australian has won two races this year and is fourth overall in the championship, but 65 points behind Ferrari’s leader Sebastian Vettel at the halfway point.