George Russell will start Sunday’s Singapore Grand Prix from the pit lane after Mercedes were penalised for replacing his engine after qualifying.
Russell was only 11th fastest during qualifying on Saturday at the Marina Bay circuit, prompting Mercedes to replace his entire power unit.
“All the power unit components for George Russell have been replaced without the approval of the FIA technical delegate,” said a statement from stewards.
“Therefore car number 63 should now be required to start the race from the pit lane.”
Britain’s Russell has finished in the top five for all but one of the races he has completed in his debut season for Mercedes.
He will face an almost impossible task to keep up that record on a street circuit under the lights that affords few overtaking opportunities.
