Scuderia Ferrari announced that the turbocharger and MGU-H were damaged following an investigation in Maranello regarding the technical trouble that Charles Leclerc was hit by the F1 Round 6 Spanish Grand Prix. Both were confirmed to have irreparable damage, and there are concerns regarding a grid demotion penalty for the rest of the season.
Ferrari states that the cause of the failure is “not caused by a design defect or reliability problem”, and it may be caused by an external factor such as course or condition, or by the method of use or operation. ..
Due to concerns regarding reliability, Ferrari had a plan to focus on reliability and suppress the mode and work on data collection until the 5th round Miami GP. It is rumored that the engine power will be further released following Spain, so I am worried regarding the relationship.
Leclerc has already used two each in the last six races, including Barcelona. The 2022 season F1 competition rules, which are scheduled for all 22 races, stipulate that if four or more cars are thrown annually, the grid will be demoted according to the number of cars used.
Due to this trouble, Leclerc was forced into a difficult situation where he had to survive the remaining 16 races with two turbochargers and MGU-H.
Leclerc was in the lead in the 66-lap final race on Sunday, 22nd at the Catalan circuit, but suddenly slowed down on lap 27. He was forced to retire and gave up the victory and championship lead to Max Verstappen and Red Bull.
At the Spanish Grand Prix, Fernando Alonso replaced the power unit including the ICE (internal combustion engine), which is the fourth unit of this season, and it is the first grid demotion penalty this season.
