Gabriel Bortoleto’s disqualification from the Miami Grand Prix sprint race on May 2, 2026, highlights ongoing technical issues for Audi, marking a challenging day for the team in Miami. The incident stemmed from an engine technical infringement, specifically related to the intake air pressure exceeding the maximum permitted limit of 4.8 barA.
Key facts:
- Bortoleto finished 11th in the sprint race before his disqualification.
- The FIA stewards ruled that the car must comply with regulations at all times, which it did not.
- Audi acknowledged that the pressure exceeded limits but argued it occurred only over one lap due to unexpected temperature increases.
- Bortoleto sat out the start of qualifying for the grand prix following this issue.
- Nico Hulkenberg, Bortoleto’s teammate, did not start the sprint race due to a mechanical failure.
This incident adds to Audi’s struggles in the current Formula 1 season, with multiple engine-related issues affecting their drivers. Notably, this marked the third time in five events that an Audi driver failed to start due to engine problems. During qualifying, Bortoleto’s car emitted smoke during the cooldown lap, indicating a potential brake issue.
Bortoleto started the main race from 22nd position due to his disqualification, while Hulkenberg managed to qualify after repairs were made to his car. In light of these developments, observers speculate that Audi may need to reassess their engineering strategies moving forward.
As Bortoleto expressed frustration post-race, stating, “My brakes are on fire man,” it remains clear that both he and his team face significant challenges ahead.