Updated F1 Starting Grid for 2025 Las Vegas GP After Red Bull's Late Change

Red Bull has elected to replace several power unit elements and adjust the setup on Yuki Tsunoda's car, resulting in a last-minute alteration to the grid for the Las Vegas Grand Prix. As a consequence, Tsunoda will now commence the race from the pit lane, which elevates Lewis Hamilton to 19th position on the starting grid.

Why it matters:

Red Bull's strategic decision to change Tsunoda's power unit and car setup for a pit lane start highlights the high-stakes gamble teams are willing to take in F1, especially when starting from the back. This move aims to optimize performance by adapting to new weather forecasts and potentially gaining an advantage through a more aggressive setup, demonstrating how teams look for every possible edge.

The Details:

• Qualifying Woes: Mixed conditions during Friday's qualifying session in Las Vegas led to an unpredictable grid. Both Tsunoda and Hamilton were early exits due to yellow flags, with Tsunoda initially qualifying 19th and Hamilton 20th.
• Strategic Overhaul: Facing a near-last place start, Red Bull opted for a significant overhaul of Tsunoda's car.
  • Power Unit Components: This included replacing the internal combustion engine, turbocharger, MGU-H, MGU-K, and the exhaust system.
  • Setup Changes: Further adjustments were made to the car's general setup, including swapping the rear wing to a different specification design.
• Penalty Implication: Individually, these power unit changes would incur a 55-place grid penalty, which automatically triggers a pit lane start according to F1 regulations.
• Grid Impact: Tsunoda's move to the pit lane promotes Lewis Hamilton from 20th to 19th on the official starting grid.
• Front of the Grid: At the sharp end, Lando Norris secured pole position, with Max Verstappen joining him on the front row. Carlos Sainz and George Russell start from third and fourth, respectively.

What's next:

Red Bull's bold strategy with Tsunoda's car could pay dividends if the setup changes are effective for race day conditions. While starting from the pit lane presents a significant challenge, the team is banking on the ability to run an optimized car for a stronger race performance. The immediate impact is a minor shuffle at the back of the grid, but the true test will be how Tsunoda can climb through the field from a compromised starting position.