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Ferrari’s Monegasque is at the absolute limit of all its powerplant components, and it looks very likely that it will need to use an extra thermal engine (V6 Turbo) at the next GP, in Las Vegas (November 21-24).
Each Formula 1 power unit consists of six individual components, and each driver in the sport is allowed to use a certain number of each of these components throughout the racing season.
Specifically for internal combustion engines, each driver can use four V6 Turbos during the year. If he places fifth the regulations provide for a penalty of 10 places at the start, and 5 places for each additional engine (if needed) thereafter.
Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc already used his fourth engine of the year at the Dutch GP at the end of August, meaning that he has now competed with this particular unit in 7 GPs and 2 Sprints.
There hasn’t been a mechanical problem with this engine, but considering how much performance each thermal engine loses after a certain number of kilometers, it seems imperative for Ferrari to change Charles Leclerc’s V6 for the last 3 GPs (plus 1 Sprint ) of this season.
In Las Vegas, the long straights demand maximum performance from an engine, and the circuit also offers drivers points for realistic overtaking chances – last year’s GP saw 82 overtakes.
For these two reasons, it is likely that the Scuderia will switch to a new motor for Leclerc in the race in the American city of gambling. If he does, the 25-year-old will be penalized 10 places at the start, compared to Leclerc’s place in qualifying.
Of course, we must say that the Monegasque is at the limit -beyond the thermal engine- and all the other individual components of the power unit: the turbocharger (turbo), the MGU-H electric motor, the MGU-K electric motor, the battery and the ECU .If he changes any of them, he will receive an additional penalty.
Speaking on the matter – on the DAZN network – after the Brazilian GP, Leclerc said: “Hopefully we can be strong in Las Vegas and not get a penalty there”.
The Scuderia believes the ‘sin city’ circuit in the US Nevada desert suits the SF-24’s specifications as the Maranello team battles McLaren for this year’s constructors’ title. The difference in the championship is 36 points in favor of the English. At the same time, Leclerc is claiming 2nd place in the drivers’ championship from McLaren’s Lando Norris, from whom he is 24 points away.
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