Hulkenberg to start Belgian GP from the pitlane

Multiple power unit and drivetrain changes on Nico Hulkenberg's car means the Haas driver will start this afternoon's Belgian Grand Prix from Spa's pitlane.

Hulkenberg, who qualified last in Friday's session following a timing error by his team in Q1, was due to start his race from the back row of the grid.

Haas has thus taken the strategic option of adding new components to the German driver's current pool of hardware.

Hulkenberg has been given a fifth Internal Combustion Engine, fifth Turbo Charger, fifth MGU-H, fifth MGU-K and a third Control Electronics element.

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Haas has also replaced the gearbox cases and cassettes on the Hulk's VF-23 as well as its driveline, gear change components and auxiliary components.

"Power Unit elements in excess of the permitted number for the 2023 Championship
season were used," stated a report from the Stewards' office. "This is a breach of Article 28.2 and incurs a grid penalty.

"RNC components and auxiliary components in excess of the permitted number for the 2023 Championship season were used. This is a breach of Article 29.2 and incurs a grid penalty.

"As the PU elements and RNC and auxiliary components were changed without prior approval of the Technical Delegate in Parc Fermé this is not in accordance with The Stewards Article 40.3 and Article 40.9 of the FIA Formula 1 Sporting Regulations.

"The competitor is therefore required to start the race from the pit lane."

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