Hulkenberg lands grid penalty for Renault engine change

Nico Hulkenberg is set to suffer a five-place grid penalty after Renault confirmed he will utilise a new Spec B engine at the Austrian Grand Prix.

The German, who sits 10th in the Formula One driver standings, has now reached his allocation of five element changes for the season.

Team-mate Daniel Ricciardo used the same engine model in last weekend's grand prix in France, although the Australian was not penalised as he was still within his limit.

Hulkenberg did concede to having some difficulties with balance in Friday's practice sessions.

NEWS : Nico will take the new Spec B ICE today. This will result in a five place grid penalty as it’s the fifth element used so far this year. #RSspirit #AustrianGP pic.twitter.com/L4Ikgw7DaE

— Renault F1 Team (@RenaultF1Team) June 29, 2019

"Obviously it's a short lap, not too many corners, but Spielberg kind of has its own laws and rules," he said. "It's a tricky old track, very technical.

"But the main struggle [was] with the balance, and it's very hard to find a good rhythm. And, of course, you do see that on the timesheet.

"We were really lacking some slow speed performance – hence we elected to do another low fuel run and it compromised our high-fuel running a little bit trying to get more out of the car."