Max Verstappen of Red Bull penalized with grid drop for Belgian Grand Prix at Spa

Red Bull driver Max Verstappen faces a five-place grid drop for this Sunday's Belgian Grand Prix due to excessive component usage.

As the current leader of the Formula 1 championship, Verstappen will be taking on his fifth gearbox of the 2023 season at Spa, exceeding the allowed limit of four. Consequently, the Dutchman will have to start no higher than sixth for the highly anticipated race.

Spa is no stranger to Verstappen starting from the midfield. Last year, he lined up in 14th place on the grid after surpassing his quota of power unit elements.

However, the determined driver quickly made his way through the pack, capturing the race lead by Lap 12 and ultimately securing a victory with a comfortable 17-second lead over his teammate, Sergio Perez.

Speaking of Perez, the Mexican driver has also utilized all four of his allocated gearboxes for the 2023 season. This puts him at risk of receiving a penalty as well if he requires a new component.

Mark your calendars for Sunday, 30 July, as the Belgian Grand Prix promises thrilling action at the iconic Spa-Francorchamps circuit in potential wet conditions.