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via Formula1.comBortoleto confused by 'weird' Baku form after Q1 exitGabriel Bortoleto and Nico Hulkenberg of Audi faced a disappointing qualifying session at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, both failing to advance past Q1. Bortoleto finished in 17th place while Hulkenberg was 18th, marking a stark contrast to their usual performance this season. Despite the introduction of a significant upgrade package, the team struggled with grip and pace throughout the weekend.
Bortoleto expressed his confusion over the car's performance, noting that while the upgrades seemed effective, they did not translate into improved results. Hulkenberg attributed his exit to a yellow flag that disrupted his qualifying run, but he remains confident that the team can optimise the new upgrades in the coming weeks. Both drivers acknowledged the challenging conditions in Baku, which may have impacted their performance.
Sat 26 Sep · 05:59 UTC
via Motorsport.comWilliams’ long-awaited F1 upgrade is delivering in Baku – but was Q3 an “overachievement”?Williams Racing has celebrated its best qualifying result of the 2026 season at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, with Carlos Sainz achieving 9th place in qualifying. This improvement comes after the introduction of a new chassis that has addressed the car's previous weight issues, allowing for better performance on the track.
Despite the positive outcome, both Sainz and Alexander Albon expressed caution regarding the upgrade's potential, noting that the car's handling remains a concern. Albon highlighted the need for further aerodynamic improvements as they prepare for the upcoming races in Malaysia and Singapore, which feature different track characteristics.
Fri 25 Sep · 18:36 UTC
via the-race.comSainz loses Williams's best grid slot of 2026Carlos Sainz, driving for Williams, has been handed a five-place grid penalty for failing to heed yellow flags during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix qualifying session. This penalty means Sainz will start from 14th position, denying Williams its best grid slot of the year, which was previously held by Alex Albon in 11th place. The stewards determined that Sainz did not adequately reduce his speed in the relevant yellow-flag sector, despite receiving warnings from his team.
In addition to Sainz's penalty, Sergio Perez of Cadillac also faced a three-position penalty for impeding McLaren's Oscar Piastri. However, due to engine component penalties affecting Aston Martin drivers, Perez will only drop one position, starting from 20th. The penalties highlight the strict enforcement of yellow flag regulations and traffic management during qualifying sessions in Formula 1.
Fri 25 Sep · 15:44 UTC
via RaceFansCarlos Sainz receives grid penalty for Azerbaijan GPCarlos Sainz has been handed a five-place grid penalty for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix after breaching yellow flag regulations during qualifying. The penalty comes after Sainz achieved his best qualifying performance of the season with Williams.
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via f1chronicle.comCarlos Sainz’s Underrated Record at the Azerbaijan Grand PrixCarlos Sainz Jr. had a remarkable performance at the 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, qualifying second and finishing third, marking a significant achievement for Williams. This result was their first front-row start since 2021 and showcased Sainz's skill in navigating the challenging Baku circuit, despite the team's struggles with car handling in previous races.
Throughout his career at Baku, Sainz has consistently demonstrated his ability to perform well, with five top-10 finishes in seven races. His best result came in 2023 when he finished fifth with Ferrari, and he has maintained a solid average finishing position at the track. Sainz's recent podium finish is a testament to his talent and resilience, contributing to Williams' hopes for a resurgence in performance.
Fri 25 Sep · 11:03 UTC
via Motorsport.comDavid Coulthard warns "heads will roll" if Williams FW48 upgrade failsDavid Coulthard has issued a stark warning regarding the Williams FW48 upgrade, stating that significant consequences could follow if it fails to improve the team's performance. The Grove-based team has struggled throughout the season, currently sitting ninth in the constructors' championship with only 11 points, largely due to the car's overweight issues.
The upgrade, described by team principal James Vowles as nearly a B-spec car, is aimed at enhancing performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Coulthard, drawing comparisons to Aston Martin's previous upgrades, believes that the changes should yield a notable improvement. However, he cautioned that if the expected results do not materialise, there could be serious repercussions for the team.Thu 24 Sep · 17:10 UTC
via CrashSergio Perez receives grid penalty for Azerbaijan incidentThe FIA has imposed a grid penalty on Sergio Perez following an incident during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix qualifying where he impeded Oscar Piastri. The decision comes after a stewards' investigation into the matter.
+ 2 moreThu 24 Sep · 16:25 UTC
via RacingNews365Audi confirms Hulkenberg and Bortoleto for 2027Audi has officially confirmed that Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto will be part of their Formula 1 line-up for the 2027 season. Mattia Binotto stated that both drivers were already under contract, which eliminated the need for a new announcement.
+ 1 moreThu 24 Sep · 12:10 UTC
via RacingNews365Carlos Sainz Williams on fire as multiple F1 drivers suffer brake issuesDuring the first practice session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Carlos Sainz faced significant brake issues when the rear brakes of his Williams caught fire as he returned to the garage. This incident was part of a larger trend, as multiple drivers reported brake problems in the opening minutes of the session.
Isack Hadjar, returning to Red Bull after an injury, noted severe pulling on his brakes, while Oscar Piastri from McLaren expressed concerns about extreme vibrations. Alex Albon, Sainz's teammate, also mentioned unusual brake behaviour, highlighting a troubling start for the Williams team.Thu 24 Sep · 08:58 UTC
via Motorsport WeekCarlos Sainz suggests F1 rule tweak amid VSC ‘unfairness’Carlos Sainz has voiced concerns over the fairness of the current Virtual Safety Car (VSC) rules in Formula 1, particularly following Lando Norris's loss of victory in Madrid due to a VSC. Sainz, who is a director of the Grand Prix Driver's Association, believes that the timing of VSCs can unfairly benefit certain drivers while disadvantaging others, especially when it comes to pit stops.
Sainz suggested that changes could be made to improve the situation, such as extending the duration of VSCs or closing the pit lane during these periods. He emphasised that the rules should not drastically alter race outcomes and expressed hope that if more drivers share their views, the sport might consider revising the VSC regulations.
Wed 23 Sep · 15:30 UTC
via f1oversteer.comFernando Alonso unhappy that Spain’s F1 commentator is ‘protecting’ Carlos SainzFernando Alonso expressed his dissatisfaction with Spanish F1 commentator Antonio Lobato, claiming he is biased in favour of Carlos Sainz. This criticism follows a collision between the two drivers during the Spanish Grand Prix, where Alonso suffered front-wing damage and Sainz received a penalty for his actions. Alonso's frustrations led him to boycott interviews with DAZN, the broadcaster that employs Lobato, for several months.
After the race, Alonso spoke to DAZN for the first time in months, but journalist Julianne Cerasoli suggested this was merely to criticise Sainz. The tension between Alonso and Sainz has escalated as they now compete in different teams, with Alonso's Aston Martin and Sainz's Williams facing off on the grid. Despite their past relationship, Alonso's perception of bias from Lobato has strained his willingness to engage with Spanish media.
Tue 22 Sep · 14:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comCarlos Sainz labels 2026 Williams 'the worst car I've ever had' because it has 'no strengths'Carlos Sainz has expressed his frustration with the 2026 Williams FW48, calling it the worst car he has ever driven in his career. He highlighted the car's lack of strengths and numerous weaknesses, which have contributed to Williams' struggles this season, currently sitting in P9 in the constructors' standings with only 11 points.
Despite his dissatisfaction, Sainz remains hopeful for improvements with an upcoming upgrade for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. He emphasized the importance of verifying the effectiveness of the new upgrade and its correlation with the team's future car developments, as he aims to compete more effectively in the coming seasons.Tue 22 Sep · 08:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comSainz advises Williams junior Green to embrace risksCarlos Sainz has encouraged 13-year-old Will Green, a junior driver for Williams, to take risks as he transitions from karting to single-seaters. Sainz emphasised the importance of pushing limits rather than focusing solely on consistency in his racing development.+ 1 moreMon 21 Sep · 14:42 UTC
via Motorsport.comGabriel Bortoleto opens up on Fernando Alonso's personality away from F1 camerasGabriel Bortoleto, an Audi Formula 1 driver, has shared insights about his manager, Fernando Alonso, stating that Alonso's personality remains consistent both on and off the camera. Bortoleto appreciates Alonso's straightforwardness and sense of humour, noting that his sarcasm is often entertaining and genuine.
In his second season in Formula 1, Bortoleto reflects on his journey since debuting in 2025. He recalls Alonso's praise for him as the best rookie of his generation after a strong performance at the Hungarian Grand Prix. Currently, Bortoleto is ranked 14th in the championship standings, ahead of his teammate Nico Hulkenberg.Mon 21 Sep · 10:40 UTC
via F1iBinotto singles out Bortoleto as his Schumacher-like F1 talentMattia Binotto, the chief of Audi's Formula 1 project, has identified Gabriel Bortoleto as a driver with qualities reminiscent of Michael Schumacher. Binotto, who spent many years at Ferrari alongside Schumacher, emphasised that Bortoleto's work ethic and human sensitivity stand out, traits he believes are essential for success in F1.
Bortoleto, now 21, did not grow up idolising Schumacher but has come to appreciate the seven-time champion through Binotto's insights. As Audi develops its new F1 team, having a driver like Bortoleto, who possesses both talent and the ability to motivate those around him, is seen as vital for the team's future.
Mon 21 Sep · 08:07 UTC
via newsonf1.comGabriel Bortoleto expresses fear of flying in F1Gabriel Bortoleto has revealed that flying around the world for Formula 1 races is becoming increasingly difficult for him. The Audi driver shared his concerns in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport.
via PlanetF1The uncomfortable truth about Carlos SainzCarlos Sainz's transition from Ferrari to Williams has not gone as hoped, with his recent performances raising concerns about his future in Formula 1. After winning the 2024 Mexican Grand Prix, Sainz's career trajectory has taken a downturn, marked by penalties and collisions that have tarnished his reputation. His struggles have been compounded by the competitive nature of the midfield, where he finds himself once again after years of striving to escape it.
Despite his efforts to remain positive and committed to Williams, Sainz's age and the team's current standing may limit his opportunities for advancement. He has openly acknowledged the need to reassess his situation, especially after failing to secure a move to a more competitive team like Audi. As he faces the reality of his career, Sainz is determined to work hard and improve, hoping to reclaim a position where he can compete for significant achievements in the sport.
Sat 19 Sep · 06:12 UTC
via f1oversteer.comFernando Alonso’s unheard Spanish GP radio shows Carlos Sainz owes him an apologyDuring the recent Spanish Grand Prix, Carlos Sainz was penalized for an incident involving Fernando Alonso, which led to a heated exchange between the two drivers. Sainz expressed his frustration, claiming Alonso's radio complaints were an attempt to influence the stewards' decision against him.
Alonso's radio messages revealed that he felt Sainz had squeezed him into the wall, and he communicated this to his race engineer. Despite the tension, both drivers had a challenging race, with Sainz retiring early and Alonso finishing far down the order.Wed 16 Sep · 12:30 UTC/Sainz%20header.webp)
via Formula1.comHow Sainz’s home race in Madrid unravelledCarlos Sainz had a challenging home race in Madrid, where he failed to finish due to a series of incidents and penalties. After qualifying in P20 due to a three-place grid penalty for impeding another driver, Sainz's race took a turn for the worse when he made contact with Yuki Tsunoda on the first lap, resulting in floor damage that severely impacted his car's performance. Ultimately, he retired after 43 laps, feeling that even with a perfect race, he would not have finished higher than 16th.
Alex Albon, Sainz's teammate, also faced difficulties during the race, qualifying in P16 and finishing ahead of Sainz. Albon struggled with tire management and pace, particularly on harder tires, which affected his ability to maintain grip. Despite the disappointing results, Sainz appreciated the support from the fans and expressed hope for better performances in future races.Tue 15 Sep · 14:31 UTC
via PlanetF1Nico Rosberg points finger at Carlos Sainz as Madring underwhelmsNico Rosberg has publicly criticized Carlos Sainz following the Spanish Grand Prix, where the Madring circuit failed to provide adequate overtaking opportunities. Rosberg emphasized that Sainz, as an ambassador for the circuit, should be held accountable for its shortcomings. The race was described as processional, with Kimi Antonelli winning while merely managing his tires, and drivers like Lando Norris and Max Verstappen expressing frustration over the lack of competitive racing due to the track's design.
In response to the disappointing race, Sainz acknowledged the need for improvements, suggesting that the circuit should remain open-minded to changes that could enhance overtaking. Other drivers, including Norris and Alonso, echoed these sentiments, pointing out specific corners that could be modified to create better racing conditions. Overall, the feedback from the drivers indicates a strong desire for the Madring to evolve into a more engaging race track.Tue 15 Sep · 06:04 UTCPage 2 of 9