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Ferrari has replaced the engine in Felipe Massa's car ahead of the season opening Bahrain Grand Prix.

Although it is only the first race of the year, Ferrari said that the power unit was displaying some worrying characteristics - so it decided to take precautionary measures and replace it.

A statement by the team said: "At 10am, when the FIA rules allow to work on the cars, the mechanics started to work on the F10 #7, replacing its engine.

"This is a completely precautionary step: the engine, used by Felipe Massa up to the qualifying yesterday afternoon shows, some abnormal parameters, but can still be used on the track, according to the applicable rules, during free practice sessions.

"The decision, taken last night, will not lead to any sanctions for the Brazilian driver, who will start from the first row."