Sainz ruled out of Belgian GP after exhaust failure!

©McLaren

McLaren's Carlos Sainz has been forced out of the Belgian Grand Prix at the eleventh hour after an exhaust failure was discovered on the Spaniard's power unit following his lap to the grid.

The misfortune marks the second race at Spa in succession where Sainz has failed to start the event, having been unable to launch his car off the grid last year following a power unit issue.

A billow of smoke was seen at the rear of Sainz's McLaren as its driver circulated around the track to make his way to the grid.

Sainz had qualified 7th, but the late set-back means that his designated grid box box will remain empty when drivers line up for the start.

McLaren's fortunes at Spa now remain in the hands of Lando Norris who starts the race P10

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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.