Picture Credit: Twitter
Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton will take a grid penalty for the Italian Grand Prix after a power unit change. As Hamilton’s vehicle will have its fourth power unit this season, the Briton will exceed his allocation of power units and therefore take a grid penalty at Monza. However, it is yet not confirmed whether the seven-time champion will be relegated to the back of the grid.
The reason behind a new power unit for Hamilton is his damaged unit after his collision with Fernando Alonso at the Belgian Grand Prix. The team said that they are still working to recover that engine and its related parts – temporarily taking it out of the pool of PUs.
Multiple drivers including Max Verstappen took engine penalties in Belgium – where Verstappen himself took victory – while the likes of Valtteri Bottas and the Mercedes-powered cars of Aston Martin and Williams are expected to take engine-related grid penalties soon.
Lewis Hamilton looking for first pole
With the seven-time champion taking a grid penalty, it’s to be seen how Hamilton approaches the race as the Mercedes driver is still searching for his first pole finish. Hamilton has managed a total of six podium finishes so far in the 2022 season but the first P1 finish is still awaited. Hamilton had a chance to get it at the Dutch Grand Prix but a safety car and no change of tyres forced him to a P4 finish. With most wins at Monza, Hamilton will fancy his chances against Verstappen.
The Briton is currently in the sixth position in Drivers' Standings led by Max Verstappen with 158 points. Charles Leclerc, Sergio Perez, George Russell and Carlos Sainz are right ahead of Hamilton. Meanwhile, Mercedes are placed third in the Constructors standings led by Red Bull with 346 points.
