Lawson set for Monza grid penalty as Red Bull introduces new PU components

Liam Lawson is set to take a grid penalty at the Italian Grand Prix, with Red Bull introducing new power unit components to the RB22 he shares with Isack Hadjar. The New Zealander will drop down the Monza grid, a circuit that offers some of the best overtaking opportunities on the F1 calendar.

Why it matters:

Monza is one of the most forgiving venues to absorb a grid penalty, with long straights and powerful DRS zones making overtaking far easier than at most circuits. Red Bull's decision to fit fresh power unit components this weekend minimizes the long-term damage to Lawson's campaign.

The details:

• The new components are assigned to the RB22 chassis rather than a specific driver, meaning Lawson won't face a double penalty when he returns to his usual Racing Bulls machinery.
• Hadjar is sitting out at Monza as he continues his recovery from the wrist injury sustained during the F1 summer break.
• Red Bull technical director Pierre Waché hinted at the penalty on Friday, which is why Lawson ran a slightly different run plan during FP2.
• It has not yet been confirmed which specific components have been changed.

What's next:

Lawson may not return to his regular Racing Bulls car until after the Spanish Grand Prix next week. Mercedes' Kimi Antonelli and Williams' Alex Albon have already taken new components and will line up at the back on Sunday.