Perez changes engine parts and starts from pit lane

F1 News

Final starting grid Australia 2023 Perez out of pit lane
2 April 2023 at 05:28
Last update 2 April 2023 at 05:41
  • GPblog.com

Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas violated the parc fermé rules and both started from the pit lane in Australia. Red Bull Racing driver Max Verstappen starts from pole position. This is the final grid for the race at the Albert Park Circuit in Melbourne.

Perez and Bottas start from pit lane

In Q1, Sergio Perez skidded off the track, forcing him to start Sunday's race in Australia from the back. Alfa Romeo's Valtteri Bottas also had a poor qualifying session. Both drivers' teams opted to make changes to the car after qualifying. As this is not allowed by the parc fermé rules, they both receive a grid penalty and start from the pit lane.

In Perez's case, it involves a swapped Energy Store and Control Electronics. The Red Bull driver is already using his third of the season from both element. In Bottas' case, the changes are less invasive in nature. The suspension of the Finn's car has been modified. And that too is not allowed.

Final starting grid GP Australia 2023

Below you can see the final starting grid, including Perez and Bottas' modified starting position.