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Norris Handed Ten-Place Grid Penalty in Belgium After Fourth Electronics Unit
Lando Norris faces a tough challenge at Spa-Francorchamps, where a ten-place grid penalty forces a recovery race—a direct consequence of ongoing power unit reliability issues.
By Patrick Koster - 2026-07-16T14:17:11.000Z - 2 min read
Lando Norris will take a ten-place grid penalty in Belgium this upcoming weekend. McLaren confirmed the measure, as the world champion is forced to fit a new power unit component, exceeding the maximum allowed limit.
The component in question is the power electronics unit, with Norris now using his fourth element, whereas a limit of three applies ahead of the tenth race of the season. Issues with this specific part have plagued Mercedes power units, including McLaren's, for much of the season.
Earlier incidents, such as a missed start in China and a failure during second free practice in Monaco, quickly forced Norris through his pool. Even a replacement unit fitted in Japan ran into immediate trouble, leaving the driver at his maximum early on.
McLaren strategically chose to take the penalty during the Belgian Grand Prix. The Spa-Francorchamps circuit is known for relatively better overtaking opportunities compared to upcoming events in Hungary and Zandvoort, which should soften the impact of the grid penalty.
The necessary change aims to leverage recent reliability upgrades introduced by engine supplier Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains. The team plans to run this fourth power electronics unit for the remainder of the season, aiming to maximize reliability while preventing further sporting penalties.
The engine troubles are not limited to McLaren. Other drivers using a Mercedes power unit, such as George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli, have also suffered retirements related to the battery module this season.