Isack Hadjar faces potential F1 grid penalties due to engine usage

Red Bull driver Isack Hadjar faces potential further grid penalties for the remainder of the 2026 Formula 1 season following technical reports from the Sepang Grand Prix. According to the FIA, Hadjar utilized his seventh internal combustion engine of the season, exceeding the permitted allocation of four units.

The engine change in Malaysia resulted in a five-place grid penalty, dropping Hadjar from third in qualifying to eighth on the starting grid. Although he recovered to fifth place during the race, the high number of components used is partly attributed to a summer break period where Hadjar was sidelined by a wrist injury. During his absence, Liam Lawson served as a substitute; however, under current regulations, the components used during Lawson’s appearances count toward Hadjar’s seasonal allocation.

Under Formula 1 Sporting Regulations, the first component used beyond the limit incurs a 10-place penalty, with subsequent changes resulting in five-place drops. With seven rounds remaining, Red Bull may face additional penalties if further engine replacements are required, which could be particularly impactful on street circuits like Singapore.