Carlos SainzGabriel BortoletoNico Hülkenberg 
via the-race.comF1 timing error saves Hulkenberg from grid dropNico Hulkenberg has avoided a grid penalty for the Singapore Grand Prix despite being found to have impeded Carlos Sainz during qualifying. The stewards determined that Hulkenberg's actions were influenced by a timing error that led his team to believe Sainz had completed his lap, resulting in no penalty being applied.
The incident occurred when Hulkenberg was on a cooldown lap and Sainz was on a push lap. Although Sainz had to abandon his lap and finished 14th, Hulkenberg's starting position remained intact due to the stewards' assessment of extraordinary mitigating circumstances surrounding the timing information provided to the teams.
the-race.comSat 10 Oct · 19:12 UTC
via RacingNews365Three F1 drivers learn stewards decision into chain-reaction accidentGabriel Bortoleto, Alex Albon, and Valtteri Bottas were involved in a chain-reaction accident during the Singapore Grand Prix Sprint, leading to their immediate retirements. The incident occurred as the drivers prepared for a restart following a safety car period, with Bortoleto checking up behind Fernando Alonso's Aston Martin, causing Albon and Bottas to collide with him.
After reviewing the incident, the stewards concluded that the collisions were a result of inconsistent speeds among the cars ahead. They determined that while the collisions could have been avoided, the circumstances did not warrant penalties, especially since all three drivers had already retired from the race.
RacingNews365Sat 10 Oct · 14:25 UTC
via RacingNews365Pit lane start confirmed for Singapore Sprint after late change madeCarlos Sainz will begin the Singapore Grand Prix Sprint from the pit lane due to suspension adjustments made by Williams under parc ferme conditions. He qualified last in a challenging session, finishing P22, while his teammate Alex Albon managed to qualify P19. Sainz faced multiple issues, including brake problems and a lock-up during his flying lap, which hindered his performance.
The Sprint race will be 21 laps long, and starting from the pit lane presents a significant challenge for Sainz. Additionally, an Overtake Mode issue during qualifying affected several drivers, with Sainz noting that this power disparity likely cost him valuable time. Williams aims to gather useful data from the Sprint ahead of the main race on Saturday.RacingNews365Sat 10 Oct · 08:02 UTC
via f1oversteer.comCarlos Sainz criticises FIA over Singapore qualifying errorCarlos Sainz has accused the FIA of compromising fairness in Formula 1 following a race control error during the Singapore Grand Prix qualifying session. He expressed frustration over perceived double standards in the FIA's decision-making, suggesting that the governing body treats issues differently based on the drivers affected.
f1oversteer.com+ 4 moreFri 9 Oct · 16:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comFIA admits human error affected Singapore sprint qualifyingThe FIA has acknowledged that a human error contributed to issues during the sprint qualifying session for the Singapore Grand Prix. This admission follows a separate software glitch that disrupted timing and scoring for several drivers.
Motorsport.com+ 3 moreFri 9 Oct · 14:42 UTC
via RaceFansCarlos Sainz criticises FIA for lack of sporting equityCarlos Sainz has expressed his frustration with the FIA, citing a perceived lack of 'sporting equity' following a qualifying error that disadvantaged some drivers. The Ferrari driver highlighted this issue after experiencing similar problems for the second consecutive weekend.
RaceFans+ 2 moreFri 9 Oct · 14:36 UTC
via RacingNews365FIA confirms human error caused Singapore sprint issuesThe FIA has acknowledged that a 'human error' led to a power disparity during Sprint Qualifying for the Singapore Grand Prix. This incident follows a previous software glitch that affected timing and scoring at the Bahrain Grand Prix.RacingNews365+ 5 moreFri 9 Oct · 14:17 UTC
via RaceFansWilliams ‘completely missed this set of regulations and got it really wrong’ – Sainz | Formula 1Carlos Sainz Jnr has publicly criticised Williams for failing to adhere to crucial regulations during the 2026 Formula 1 season. He stated that the team's struggles are not related to recent comments made by team principal James Vowles regarding the cost cap, which Vowles described as a 'cost cap trap' hindering necessary infrastructure improvements.
Sainz acknowledged the challenges posed by the cost cap and expressed agreement with Vowles' concerns. As a director of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association, Sainz emphasised the need for Formula 1 to address these issues to ensure fair competition and development opportunities for all teams.RaceFansFri 9 Oct · 06:16 UTC
via RacingNews365Carlos Sainz raises health concern amid Singapore haze crisisCarlos Sainz has voiced his health concerns regarding the air quality in Singapore, which has been severely affected by smoke haze from Indonesian wildfires. The National Environment Agency reported that the Pollutant Standards Index readings across the island have crossed the unhealthy threshold, fluctuating between 101 and 160, indicating a significant health risk for residents and visitors alike.
Despite the hazardous conditions, Sainz mentioned that on-track activities are expected to continue as planned. He acknowledged the irony of racing in such polluted air, stating that drivers have been exposed to fuel burn since their early careers. Sainz emphasised the need to follow official guidance while expressing his personal discomfort with the current situation.RacingNews365Thu 8 Oct · 17:30 UTC
via the-race.comF1 drivers divided over cooling vests ahead of SingaporeIsack Hadjar has called for the ban of cooling vests in Formula 1, arguing that the extreme physical challenge is a crucial aspect of racing. Max Verstappen also expressed his discontent, stating that he does not find the vests effective.the-race.com+ 9 moreThu 8 Oct · 05:11 UTC
via Formula1.comVowles reveals telling drivers the problems facing WilliamsJames Vowles, the Team Principal of Williams, disclosed the challenges the team faces in the 2026 Formula 1 season during a podcast. He communicated to drivers Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon that the team would struggle under the new regulations, revealing that the FW48 car is overweight and lacking in performance. Despite these setbacks, Vowles noted the drivers' positive responses and their willingness to support the team.
Throughout the season, Williams has only managed to score 12 points, placing them ninth in the constructors' standings. Vowles commended Sainz and Albon for their leadership, as they quickly returned to the UK to rally the team during tough times. Their commitment and unity were highlighted as crucial for the team's morale and future progress.
Formula1.comWed 7 Oct · 15:32 UTC
via RacingNews365Nico Hulkenberg wanted to 'eat the steering wheel' as perfect gamble ruinedNico Hulkenberg expressed his frustration after his strategic gamble during the Bahrain Grand Prix was thwarted by a safety car deployment. He made the decision to switch to slick tyres at the end of Lap 8, emerging in 14th place, but the safety car on Lap 9 allowed other drivers on intermediates to pit and overtake him, leaving Hulkenberg to restart in 13th position.
Ultimately, Hulkenberg finished the race in 11th place, just shy of scoring points. He reflected on his initial confidence in the decision to pit, stating he felt like a hero until the safety car changed the race dynamics. Despite the setback, he managed to limit the damage and engaged in competitive racing, although he acknowledged that the conditions were not ideal for slick tyres.RacingNews365Tue 6 Oct · 16:10 UTC
via theguardian.comSingapore Grand Prix faces unhealthy air qualityAir quality in Singapore has reached unhealthy levels due to smoke from Indonesian wildfires, raising concerns ahead of the Grand Prix weekend. The FIA has stated that the event is still expected to proceed as planned despite the pollution.
theguardian.com+ 2 moreTue 6 Oct · 13:57 UTC
via PlanetF1F1 drivers criticise chaotic Bahrain Grand Prix startFormula 1 drivers have expressed their frustration over the chaotic start to the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, describing the situation as 'horrible' and 'totally unacceptable'. The issues stemmed from software problems that prevented cars from racing in wet conditions, leading to widespread criticism of the sport's handling of the situation.
PlanetF1+ 1 moreTue 6 Oct · 09:10 UTC%2FHulkenberg%2520Bortoleto%2520Bahrain%2520Malaysia%2520Sunday.webp&w=1200&q=70)
via Formula1.comAudi unpick eventful weekend amid penalty and last-lap dramaAudi had a challenging Bahrain Grand Prix, with Nico Hulkenberg narrowly missing out on points, finishing in P11. His teammate, Gabriel Bortoleto, started in P10 but faced difficulties after a collision with Carlos Sainz, resulting in a 10-second penalty and damage to his car.
Despite the setbacks, both drivers and Audi's Racing Director Allan McNish expressed optimism about the car's performance. Bortoleto apologised for the incident with Sainz and highlighted the positives from their recent upgrades. McNish acknowledged the frustration of losing positions in the final laps but noted the team's understanding of their strengths and weaknesses as they prepare for the next race in Singapore.Formula1.comTue 6 Oct · 08:11 UTC
via RaceFansSpotlight: ‘Who decided these rules were best for F1?’ asks Sainz | BriefCarlos Sainz Jnr expressed his concerns regarding the complex regulations in Formula 1 following significant delays during the formation laps of a recent race. The delays, which lasted nearly an hour, led Sainz to question the decision-making behind the rules that have caused such issues.
Sainz, who serves as a director for the Grand Prix Drivers Association, highlighted the complications faced by drivers, teams, and manufacturers due to the current regulations. He urged Formula 1 to critically evaluate how it arrived at this situation and consider necessary changes to simplify the rules.RaceFansSun 4 Oct · 23:01 UTC
via f1technical.netAudi left frustrated after missing points by a single position at SepangAudi faced disappointment at the Bahrain Grand Prix as Nico Hulkenberg finished just outside the points in 11th place, losing the final points position to Arvid Lindblad on the last lap. Gabriel Bortoleto's race was marred by a collision with Carlos Sainz, resulting in a 10-second penalty and a finish in 18th place due to significant damage to his car.
Despite the setbacks, Audi's strategy to switch to intermediate tyres early in the race was praised, and Hulkenberg showed strong pace after switching back to soft tyres. Racing Director Allan McNish acknowledged the team's competitiveness but expressed frustration at narrowly missing points for the second consecutive race, highlighting the tight margins in the midfield.
f1technical.netSun 4 Oct · 23:00 UTC
via RacingNews365Audi receive huge F1 fine after Nico Hulkenberg statement releasedAudi has been fined €30,000 by Formula 1 stewards due to an unsafe situation involving Nico Hulkenberg during the Bahrain Grand Prix. The incident occurred when Hulkenberg was given a green light to leave the pit while a mechanic was adjusting the front wing, leading to confusion. Although no unsafe release was declared, the stewards deemed the situation unsafe, resulting in the fine, of which €20,000 is suspended for one year.
Hulkenberg managed to avoid contact with the mechanic and finished the race in 11th place. He later commented on the incident, expressing hope that the mechanic was okay after the pit stop, which he described as not the cleanest. The driver also referred to the race as peculiar, highlighting the unusual events that unfolded throughout the day.RacingNews365Sun 4 Oct · 13:30 UTC
via CrashSainz calls for F1 to reflect on Bahrain Grand Prix issuesCarlos Sainz has stated that Formula 1 needs to take a hard look at itself following the issues experienced during the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia. He emphasised the importance of addressing the unprecedented software glitches that marred the event.
Crash+ 3 moreSun 4 Oct · 12:42 UTC
via RacingNews365Audi facing double penalty blow with Gabriel Bortoleto and Nico HulkenbergOne driver was punished, another to be investigated.RacingNews365Sun 4 Oct · 09:55 UTC
via f1technical.netWilliams reflect on their "well-executed qualifying" after Friday strugglesCarlos Sainz delivered a commendable qualifying performance for Williams, securing 13th place at the Bahrain Grand Prix despite the team's ongoing struggles with pace. Sainz's ability to progress through both qualifying sessions showcased his skill, as he managed to extract more performance from the FW48 than expected. Team Principal James Vowles acknowledged the positive aspects of Sainz's performance while also highlighting the limitations of the car.
In contrast, Alex Albon faced a challenging qualifying session, finishing in 20th place but moving up to 18th due to penalties for other drivers. Albon's difficulties were attributed to a different setup direction that did not yield the desired results. Both drivers are preparing for a race that could be influenced by high tyre degradation and potential rain, with the team hoping to capitalise on any opportunities that arise.f1technical.netSat 3 Oct · 16:04 UTC
via f1technical.net"I felt really at ease with the car," claims Bortoleto after strong Sepang qualifyingGabriel Bortoleto expressed confidence in his performance after qualifying for the Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia, where he reached Q3 for the first time since Zandvoort. He achieved a lap time of 1:37.673, placing him 10th on the grid, but will start from ninth due to grid penalties for other drivers. Bortoleto credited the Audi team for their upgrades and the car's improved performance.
Nico Hülkenberg faced disappointment after a lock-up in Q1 prevented him from advancing, resulting in a 17th place finish, though he will start 15th due to penalties for others. Both drivers are optimistic about their chances in the race, with Bortoleto aiming for points and Hülkenberg looking to capitalize on potential opportunities from his starting position.f1technical.netSat 3 Oct · 16:02 UTC
via PlanetF1Untelevised Carlos Sainz footage emerges after Bahrain GP near missUntelevised footage from the Malaysian Grand Prix qualifying session has surfaced, showing a stone hitting Carlos Sainz's Williams FW48 and damaging the onboard camera. Sainz qualified in 13th place, while Red Bull's Max Verstappen took pole position. The incident occurred as Sainz was following another car on the back straight.
Sainz defended the track surface, stating it adds character to the venue, but acknowledged that the conditions were nearing the limit of acceptability for modern Formula 1. He expressed that the low-grip conditions made it challenging to manage the car, yet he felt his qualifying performance was the best possible under the circumstances.PlanetF1Sat 3 Oct · 13:44 UTC
via f1technical.netWhy was the Sepang practice day a disappointment for Williams?Williams faced a challenging practice day at Sepang as they assessed their upgrade package from the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Both Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz reported difficulties with the car's high-speed performance, with Albon finishing 17th in the first session and last in the second, while Sainz improved but remained in the lower midfield. Albon expressed concerns about rear stability, while Sainz noted that high-speed corners were contributing to tyre degradation.
The team’s Chief Engineer, Paul Williams, acknowledged that Sepang presented a tougher test for their upgrades compared to Baku, highlighting the need to gather data on the car's limitations. With high tyre degradation expected due to the rough track surface and high temperatures, managing tyre performance will be crucial for the race. The team is focused on isolating the car's weaknesses to inform future developments.f1technical.netFri 2 Oct · 22:00 UTC