Carlos Sainz started his day on the back foot with news that a 20-place grid penalty awaits the Toro Rosso driver on Sunday.

The big hit comes after multiple component changes on his Renault engine which takes on a sixth MGU-H, and a fifth ICE and turbo.

The added elements will likely put the Spaniard dead last on the grid.

But if that wasn't bad enough, Sainz also heavily damaged his car in the morning's free practice session when he hit the barriers on the exit of Turn 11 after dropping a wheel on the grass.

Another driver running on the engine component limit is Ferrari's Kimi Raikkonen. The Finn is on his fourth and final ICE, MGU-K, control electronics and energy store.

One more failure and Raikkonen will also endure a grid penalty.

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.

Recent Posts

Cadillac explains why Perez deserved new long-term deal

Cadillac F1 CEO Dan Towriss has made clear that Sergio Perez’s value to the American…

11 hours ago

A champion's welcome: Antonelli honoured by Italian president

Formula 1 world champion Kimi Antonelli received a particularly special welcome home this week, with…

13 hours ago

Norris admits Hamilton has changed his outlook on F1 success

Lando Norris has revealed that Lewis Hamilton’s longevity and continued ability to compete at the…

14 hours ago

An F1 journeyman made of the right stuff

Former F1 driver Brett Lunger, born on this day in 1945, is pictured here hitching…

15 hours ago

Schumacher: Hamilton ‘not fast enough’ to have Ferrari n°1 status

Ralf Schumacher has once again questioned Lewis Hamilton's credentials at Ferrari, arguing that the seven-time…

16 hours ago

Wolff reveals who stopped him from quitting Mercedes

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has revealed that he offered his resignation to Mercedes-Benz group…

17 hours ago