Lewis Hamilton to Start Azerbaijan GP from Pit Lane After Engine Change

On Sunday, Lewis Hamilton will start the Azerbaijan Grand Prix from the pit lane after his Mercedes team decided to install a new engine in his car. This decision was made despite the fact that Hamilton originally qualified in seventh place. The change marks his fifth engine of the season, exceeding the allotted four, resulting in a grid penalty. Alongside the engine change, adjustments to the car’s suspension were also made.

Esteban Ocon from Alpine will join Hamilton in starting from the pit lane after also receiving a new engine. These penalties have resulted in the reshuffling of the starting grid, with Lando Norris benefiting by moving up to 15th place. Norris had qualified 17th after a challenging session influenced by yellow flags but advanced following Pierre Gasly‘s disqualification for breaching FIA technical regulations.

In the title race, Max Verstappen, the three-time world champion, currently leads Norris by 62 points. Verstappen qualified in sixth position for this race, while Charles Leclerc of Ferrari will start on pole, trailing Verstappen by 86 points in the standings. The race is scheduled to begin at 1500 local time.

The grid penalties add to the dynamic nature of the event, with Norris and Hamilton aiming to make significant headway during the race. The extended DRS zone may provide additional overtaking opportunities, while potential Safety Car interruptions could further influence the race outcome. Hamilton, struggling with tire performance in qualifying, expressed frustration but remains determined to perform well on race day.