F1 News, Reports and Race Results

Honda engine change gives Hartley another raw deal

Brendon Hartley will be starting his French Grand Prix from the back of the grid, regardless of where he qualifies this afternoon, after receiving a complete new Honda power unit.

The Toro Rosso driver encountered an issue at the end of Friday's second free practice session, and was ordered to stop immediately.

Unfortunately, Honda's subsequent diagnosis led to the fitting of a new ICE, MGU-H, turbocharger, MGU-K, control electronics and energy store to his car.

Bottas hopeful water leak won't force new engine change

The Kiwi's pervious engine misfortunes - including a failure at the last race in Canada - had already put him up to the penalty-free limit for all six components, which means his latest penalty equates to a 30-plus grid drop, or a spot on the final row of Sunday's 20-car grid.

However, Hartley will race with Honda's latest spec engine.

The Japanese manufacturer revealed that it had sent the damaged power unit immediately back to Japan for a thorough inspection.

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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.