Strategy dictates return to older-spec engine for Renault drivers

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Renault works drivers Daniel Ricciardo and Nico Hulkenberg, as well as McLaren's Carlos Sainz, have returned to the manufacturer's older-spec unit for the remainder of the Belgian Grand Prix weekend.

Renault introduced its latest Spec-C engine at Spa, with Ricciardo, Hulkenberg and Sainz using the updated unit on Friday, which entailed a grid drop for Sunday's race for all three drivers.

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While many speculated the switch-back had perhaps been done for reliability reasons, Renault insisted its decision was strategic and planned from the beginning.

Indeed, the move allows both Renault and McLaren to add the Spec-C unit to the teams' pool of engines at a venue where the effects of a grid drop are relatively minimized.

"The plan is to take penalties at a track where there is a possibility to overtake, while entering a needed extra ICE into our pool for the rest of the year," explained a Renault spokesperson.

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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.