Gabriel Bortoleto has been officially disqualified from the Miami Grand Prix sprint after the FIA identified a technical breach on his Audi. The Brazilian driver had originally finished 11th on the road before the result was annulled following post-race scrutineering.
The infringement related to engine air intake pressure exceeding the maximum permitted limit of 4.8 bar. The measurement was conducted using two FIA-approved sensors positioned within the intake system downstream of the charge air cooling unit, ensuring precise monitoring of compliance.
During the hearing, Audi representatives accepted the findings but explained that the breach occurred over a single lap when temperatures rose beyond expectations. The team stated that corrective action was immediately taken to bring the system back within regulatory limits.
"The regulations require the intake pressure to remain below 4.8 bar at all times. While corrective steps were taken, the car was not compliant throughout the session."
From a regulatory standpoint, the phrase “at all times” is decisive, leaving no tolerance for temporary breaches even if rectified during the session. This reinforces the strict enforcement approach toward any potential performance advantage gained outside the rules.
The disqualification compounds a difficult weekend for Audi, after Nico Hulkenberg failed to start due to a fire incident on the way to the grid. The combination of reliability issues and regulatory non-compliance highlights the challenges facing the team in its current development phase.
With this outcome, Audi loses its sprint result entirely, shifting focus to a comprehensive technical review. Ensuring strict compliance will be critical ahead of the main race and upcoming rounds in the increasingly competitive 2026 Formula 1 season.
Read Also
Liam Lawson admits Alpine performance leap in Miami 2026, analysing midfield gap and technical development race.
Kimi Antonelli admits stress after Q3 error in Miami 2026 qualifying despite securing pole, analysing performance and risks.
Max Verstappen sees progress at Red Bull after P2 in Miami qualifying, analysing upgrades and improved car balance.
Continue with Google
Discussion (0)
Join the Discussion!
Sign in easily to start commenting, replying, and interacting with other readers.
Latest Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!