Alonso receives new power unit for Bahrain

Fernando Alonso

Honda has confirmed that Fernando Alonso will use a brand new power unit for this weekend’s Bahrain Grand Prix.

The Japanese manufacturer has been unable to repair the damage sustained to Alonso’s power unit used at the Australian Grand Prix following the Spaniard’s horrific crash that destroyed his McLaren.

Having been unable to salvage any parts from the engine, the double world champion will be forced to use the second of his allocation of five engines at Sakhir.

“We have recovered the power unit from Fernando’s car used in Melbourne,” said Honda F1 boss Yusuke Hasegawa.

“After initial investigations, we are massively disappointed that the ICE and most of the surrounding parts have been heavily damaged, as the impact from the accident was just too great.”

Haas F1’s Esteban Gutierrez, who was involved in the collision with Alonso at Albert Park, will utilise a spare chassis for the second round of the season.