Latest News / Headline

Vettel, Ericsson set for gearbox penalties

09 Jul 2016

Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel and Sauber’s Marcus Ericsson are both expected to drop five places on the grid for the 2016 Formula 1 British Grand Prix after unscheduled gearbox changes on their cars following Saturday’s final practice session.

Vettel started the day with a new gearbox in the back of his SF16-H, but reported problems with it at the end of FP3. It will be the second race in succession at which the German has been penalised for a gearbox failing to last the required six events.

Ericsson, meanwhile, caused heavy damage to his Sauber when he crashed at Stowe this morning, hence the need for a new gearbox. The Swede, who climbed unaided from the cockpit after the accident, has been taken to hospital for routine medical checks and will not take part in qualifying.