Alonso to start from back of grid after engine change in Spain

Fernando Alonso will start from the back of the grid at the Spanish Grand Prix after switching engines.

The Spaniard qualified just 17th in what was a difficult session at his home Grand Prix, the lowest he has started at the race since his debut in 2001.

However, Alpine has opted to switch the two-time world champion’s Renault power unit, dropping him to P20 on the grid at the start of the race.

Overtaking can often be difficult at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, so Alonso will be relying on a strong strategy and possibly some carnage ahead if he hopes to cut his way through the field.

The 2022 Spanish Grand Prix gets underway at 2pm GMT later today, with Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen heading the field.

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