Tsunoda set to be hit with Mexican GP grid penalty

Yuki Tsunoda is set for a back-of-the-grid penalty for the Mexico City Grand Prix after taking new elements in his power unit.

AlphaTauri has elected to change every element of his power unit including a fifth internal combustion engine, turbo charger, MGU-H, and MGU-K out of the four allowed in a season.

He has also taken a third energy store and control electronics, with drivers allowed just two without incurring a penalty.

Under Article 28.2 of the F1 Sporting Regulations, Tsunoda has accumulated enough penalties to warrant a back-of-the-grid start.

This means wherever he qualifies on Saturday, he will start last.

Tsunoda is also missing out on track time during first practice ahead of the weekend, with the team electing to use up its mandatory remaining rookie driver allocation on Red Bull Junior Driver Isack Hadjar.