The German, who equalled his best result of the season in the British GP two weeks ago when he finished in sixth place, has needed a gearbox change before the mandatory six consecutive races.

Renault found damage in the gearbox ahead of the Hungaroring race and informed the FIA of the change on Wednesday.

The gearbox replacement will translate into a five-place grid penalty in Hungary.

Hulkenberg enjoyed a promising Friday in Budapest, finishing ninth in FP1 and seventh in FP2.