Front wing and MGU-K changes spell pit-lane start for Alonso

©McLaren

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As if his Austrian Grand Prix prospects weren't complicated enough with the depressing form of his McLaren, Fernando Alonso will start his race from the pitlane following a series of changes on his MCL33.

FIA technical delegate Jo Bauer confirmed that McLaren had broken Parc Fermé procedures and fitted Alonso's car with a new-spec front wing.

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Furthermore, Renault has also decided to change the MGU-K element on the MCL33's power unit, exceeding the two-element limit for the season, triggering an additional grid penalty

"The parts have been replaced with the approval of the FIA technical delegate following a written request from the team concerned, this being in accordance with Article 34.2 of the 2018 Formula One Sporting Regulations," stated Bauer's technical report.

"But as the above parts are different from the ones originally used, car number 14 should now be required to start from the pit lane according to Article 34.6 of the 2018 Formula One Sporting Regulations."

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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.