F1 Today | Verstappen given a penalty in Belgium, Alpine release new livery
F1 News
There is just one more race until the summer break, as F1 heads to Belgium this week. However, Max Verstappen will face a grid penalty, due to his car being fitted with a new combustion engine. Alpine will also make changes at Spa-Francorchamps, as they released their special, Marvel themed livery today. In other news, McLaren have set their sights on closing their gap in the Constructors by scoring top points, and Helmut Marko has provided an update on Sergio Perez.
Verstappen incurs grid penalty
The world-champion has received a 10-place grid penalty after the team decided they would be changing the combustion engine in his RB20. Each season, four combustion engines are allowed, and at number five, drivers must incur a grid penalty. Given the relative easiness of overtaking at the circuit, the Dutchman should not be too concerned by this.
Alpine unveils special Marvel livery
The French team will drive around this weekend in a special Marvel themed livery, inspired by 'Deadpool and Wolverine'. The new film was released on Wednesday. Ryan Reynolds, one of the team's investors, plays the lead role of Deadpool in the film. Alpine driver Esteban Ocon is also a huge fan of the Marvel film series. The car will feature red and black colours inspired by Deadpool, with yellow scratches from Wolverine's claws.
The team including the drivers will be seen in red overalls this weekend. The drivers will also have special helmet designs in honour of the film. Esteban Ocon will drive around in the Deadpool theme and Pierre Gaslyhas a helmet inspired by Wolverine.
McLaren focus on closing the gap
After their first one-two finish since 2021, McLaren are determined to end the season before the summer break well. The British team are now second in the Constructors behind Red Bull Racing. Both drivers shared their enthusiasm for the upcoming race weekend, with Oscar Piastri saying: "The Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps is my favourite track, so I’m excited to return to Belgium. It’s always tricky to predict what it will be like for us, but we’re in a strong position and we look to come away with another good set of points." His teammate, Lando Norris, also added: "It’s another special one for me. It’s probably one of my favourite circuits, and I know I’m not the only driver to enjoy racing there. It’s a challenging track, and the weather can be unpredictable, but it’s nothing we haven’t seen before."
Marko sees volatile Perez
Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has summed up Sergio Perez's recent performance in his column for Speedweek. Marko acknowledged the significant crash Perez caused in Q1 on Saturday, but praised him for his points finish on Sunday. Nevertheless, uncertainty still remains: "It is just up and down with him, nobody knows when he is going to shine or when he is going to make a mistake, there are just no constant good performances," he concluded.