Fernando Alonso says he feels sorry for his "super talented" McLaren teammate Stoffel Vandoorne after he became the first driver to fall foul of an engine penalty in the 2017 Formula One season.
Stoffel Vandoorne has endured a torrid start to his first full-season in F1, having been dogged by extensive engine problems with his Honda power unit. His latest issue came during opening practice at the Russian Grand Prix, which led to McLaren changing the major power components in his MCL32 and subsequently incurring a 15-place grid drop for Sunday's race.
"On Stoffel's side of the garage they had to change a few parts, so I think he will get a grid penalty, but it's incredible you get a penalty already in the fourth race," Alonso said.