Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton has not ruled out receiving an engine penalty that could cost him positions on the starting grid later in the Formula 1 season.
As reported by İdman.Biz, the seven-time world champion admitted that a penalty could become unavoidable if Ferrari need to use additional power-unit components beyond the permitted allocation.
The Italian team are currently managing the engine pool available to both drivers for the final part of the season. A possible penalty for Charles Leclerc over the introduction of a new power unit is already under consideration, while Ferrari are reportedly assessing a separate additional engine change for Hamilton.
Hamilton stressed that no final decision has yet been made. The Grand Prix at which the British driver could potentially serve the penalty will depend on the mileage and technical condition of his available power units.
According to reports, Ferrari could consider taking the penalty for Hamilton at one of the rounds in Austin, Mexico City or Interlagos. The team's objective would be to avoid having both drivers take engine penalties at the same event and minimise the potential loss of points in the Constructors' Championship.
Under the 2026 Formula 1 regulations, drivers who exceed the permitted allocation of power-unit components are subject to grid penalties.
