Renault yet to decide who gets new-spec engine in Canada

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Renault will travel to Montreal with an ungraded engine in its bags but the manufacturer has yet to decide who among its works drivers and customer teams gets the new unit.

Both Red Bull's Daniel Ricciardo and McLaren's Stoffel Vandoorne are on the penalty bubble following engine element failures earlier this year, while Fernando Alonso and Renault works drivers Carlos Sainz and Nico Hulkenberg still have a one-element margin before a grid drop kicks in.

"We have a new spec engine," Renault Sport F1 boss Cyril Abiteboul told Motorsport.com.

"We have yet to confirm the introduction, because the mileage is not the same across all cars, so we will see where and when exactly we will introduce that new spec.

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"I think we have six engines available, subject to the last event on procurement in the supply chain.

"That's the plan, but not sure it's actually the best to introduce it in all six cars, in particular Red Bull.

"We need to look into that. We always work in partnership with teams, trying to do the best for the overall season result."

Abiteboul said the new-spec unit's gains will be marginal, slightly boosted by an updated internal combustion engine.

"It's a small gain in power, although we know we won't be the only one," said the Renault Sport F1 boss.

"It's mainly in the ICE that we can expect more power. This has to be the focus, and it will be the focus for all of this year, and maybe next year."

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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.