Norris hit with Sakhir GP grid drop after engine change

©McLaren

Lando Norris will start his Sakhir GP from the back row following McLaren's tactical decision to change two engine elements on the Briton's MCL35.

Norris qualified P15 on Saturday, but the lowly start has compelled McLaren to fit a new ICE and turbocharger to provide its driver with fresh components for the final two races of the season, a tactical switch intended to help the papaya squad defend its crucial third place in the F1 Constructors' standings.

Ahead of Sunday's penultimate round, McLaren holds a 17-point advantage over Racing Point, with Renault 27 points behind.

As Norris has exceeded the limits of the two replaced components, the McLaren driver will join Haas Pietro Fittipaldi on the back row of the Sakhir GP grid.

The Brazilian has taken over Romain Grosjean's car but also the Frenchman's power unit elements allocation. After receiving a new energy store and control electronics that also surpassed the authorized limits, Fittipaldi was also handed a grid penalty.

However, the rookie's original P20 qualifying position means he will start behind Norris on the final row of the grid.

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