Maximilian Guenther has been handed two separate 20-place grid penalties for exceeding the allocated number of gearboxes and inverters on his Maserati MSG Racing car. The penalties will affect his grid positions in today’s São Paulo E-Prix.
The four-time race winner, who currently sits sixth in the World Championship standings, was forced to change the gearbox and inverter on his Maserati MSG Racing ahead of Free Practice 2, and was given two respective penalties for the offence.
For both parts, the allocation for an entire season is two, but the team have now exceeded this limitation. It’s a hard hit, especially as they are about to enter their fourth race of a 16-round calendar.
In accordance with Article 28.12 of the World Championship’s Sporting Regulations, Guenther will also suffer a 10-second stop/go penalty in the race.
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It’s a big knockback for Guenther and Maserati MSG Racing, who have had a strong start to their Season 10 campaign, and looked speedy around this street circuit over the weekend so far.
However, this track is fantastic for overtaking opportunities, with the likes of Lucas di Grassi starting from last place and making up nine places during last year’s E-Prix. TAG Heuer Porsche’s Pascal Wehrlein also charged up the pack from 18th to seventh in an impressive feat.
Guenther was also under investigation for a pit lane infraction after Free Practice 2, but it was decided that there was to be no further action.
SCHEDULE: Where, when and how to watch or stream the 2024 São Paulo E-Prix Round 4
On to race day on Saturday 16 March; qualifying follows at 09:40 local with lights out on Round 4 at 14:00 local/17:00 UTC.
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