All Honda-powered drivers set for grid penalties in Russia

©RedBull

Honda has announced that all four Red Bull and Toro Rosso drivers will receive a new Spec 4-ICE in Russia, a move that will warrant grid penalties for both teams.

The changes are a strategic move by Honda destined to provide Red Bull's drivers with relatively fresh horsepower at the Japanese manufacturer's home race at Suzuka in two weeks' time.

Kvyat unfazed by prospect of remaining with Toro Rosso

Toro Rosso's Daniil Kvyat, who took on a new Spec 4 engine at Spa, will receive a complete new unit at Sochi and will therefore start his race on Sunday from the back of the grid.

Red Bull's Max Verstappen and Alex Albon, as well as Toro Rosso's Pierre Gasly, will only take on a new Internal Combustion Engine, meaning the three drivers will be set back five spots on the Russian Grand Prix grid.

Honda's progress this season is undeniable, but the manufacturer's development programme has also extended engine usage comfortably past the permitted limits.

While Mercedes and Ferrari drivers have used just three ICE elements so far this season, Verstappen is set to take on his fifth ICE year-to-date.

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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.