F1: Hamilton gets third new engine of Spa weekend

Mercedes has given Lewis Hamilton his third new Mercedes Formula 1 power unit of the Belgian Grand Prix weekend.

Mercedes equipped Hamilton with a new power unit prior to each of the two practice sessions at Spa Francorchamps on Friday. The changes meant Hamilton incurred two 15-place grid penalties after taking a sixth and seventh MGU-H and turbocharger, adding up to a total of 30 places. The fitting of an eighth MGU-H and turbocharger, a sixth MGU-K and internal combustion engine adds a further 25-place penalty, taking the total penalty to 55 places.

With the regulations no longer allowing any penalty beyond a grid drop for one race, Mercedes chose to introduce the third new power unit into the reigning champion's pool prior to FP3, as he was already set to start on the back row.

Hamilton now has three new, updated power units to see him through the Belgian GP weekend and the eight events that follow. The Briton goes into the Belgian GP with a 19-point lead over teammate Nico Rosberg in the world championship standings.

Originally on Autosport.com