**Verstappen Engine Penalty LEAKED for Brazil GP! šØ**
A potential setback for Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen has come to light, with rumors swirling that the defending champion might face an *engine penalty* heading into the Brazilian Grand Prix. This development could impact Verstappenās weekend at the iconic Interlagos track, possibly giving his rivals a rare chance to close in on the runaway leader.
### Why the Penalty?
According to early leaks, Verstappenās penalty could be related to exceeding the maximum number of engine components allowed under current F1 regulations. As F1 teams push their power units to the absolute limit across the season, any need for additional parts triggers grid penalties, which can set even the fastest drivers back in qualifying and race starts. Red Bull has managed to stay within limits for most of the season, but with only a few races left, Verstappenās power unit may need attention to ensure reliability through the final Grand Prix stretch.
### Impact on the Brazilian GP
Should the penalty go through, Verstappen will start further down the grid than usualāa disadvantage on Brazilās challenging and twisty Interlagos circuit. This could open the door for drivers like Lewis Hamilton, who is known to excel at this track, and other top competitors eager to capitalize on Verstappenās rare potential starting disadvantage. For Red Bull, it would be a strategic balancing act to ensure they prioritize both performance and longevity, given the raceās high-speed demands and unpredictable weather.
### Whatās Next for Verstappen and Red Bull?
If Verstappen indeed takes a penalty, Red Bull will need to bring their A-game in strategy and pit stops. Verstappenās impressive overtaking sšš¾ššs and Red Bullās straight-line speed have helped them overcome similar setbacks before, but starting further back could intensify the challenge at one of F1ās most famous circuits.
Fans are eagerly awaiting confirmation from Red Bull, but one thing is certain: if the penalty holds, the Brazilian GP just got a lot more interesting, with Verstappen now forced to fight his way through the fieldāan unexpected twist in what has been a record-breaking season for the Red Bull superstar.