Michael May✕ Colton Herta✕ Carlos Sainz✕ Max Verstappen✕ Valtteri Bottas✕ ✕
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Williams reaches Q3 for first time in 2026
Williams achieved a significant milestone by progressing to Q3 for the first time in the 2026 season during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. However, the team faced challenges as Carlos Sainz received a grid penalty, impacting their overall performance.
Motorsport.com + 1 more Tue 29 Sep · 10:22 UTC via RacingNews365 Engine guru confirms Max Verstappen was right: 'I already had this view' Max Verstappen has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with the current Formula 1 power units, arguing that they require excessive energy management, making the driving experience less authentic. His concerns have been echoed by renowned engine designer Mario Illien, who agrees that the balance between combustion and electric power is flawed, stating that the current setup diminishes the driver's role in racing.
Illien, who has extensive experience in F1 engine design, supports a shift in the power unit ratio that the FIA is considering, moving from a 52/48 split to a 58/42 ratio. However, he cautions that while this change may improve the situation, it will not fully resolve the underlying issues. Illien reminisces about the previous power unit configuration, which he believes was more effective and better received by fans. RacingNews365 Mon 28 Sep · 17:15 UTC 556