Russell to start Singapore Grand Prix from the back after engine change

SINGAPORE — George Russell will start the Singapore Grand Prix from the back of the grid after Mercedes decided to change the engine in his car.

The Mercedes driver retired from the Malaysian Grand Prix with an engine problem while fighting for third place. The engine change means a grid penalty for Sunday’s Grand Prix, but not for Saturday’s sprint.

Russell, who won in Singapore last year, now faces a difficult recovery drive on a street circuit where overtaking is traditionally challenging. Mercedes has not yet confirmed whether he will use the upgraded engine originally planned for the following race in Austin.

With seven races remaining, Russell trails championship leader Kimi Antonelli by 84 points.