Hamilton gets back-of-the-grid penalty for Brazilian GP
Lewis Hamilton will start the Formula 1 Brazilian Grand Prix from the back of the grid after Ferrari was forced to make critical engine adjustments following final practice. The British driver and teammate Charles Leclerc installed updated internal combustion components ahead of FP3, but Hamilton’s car emitted smoke during that session, necessitating a full power unit replacement.
This change elevated Hamilton’s penalty from 10 places to the maximum back-of-the-grid sanction, matching penalties for Max Verstappen and Sergio Pérez. Leclerc’s penalty remains at 10 places, while Mercedes’ George Russell faces a five-place grid penalty.
The Brazilian circuit has historically offered strong overtaking opportunities, with Hamilton winning from 10th on the grid in 2021 and Verstappen securing a podium from the pitlane last year after starting 17th in 2024.
