Gabriel Bortoleto was disqualified from the Miami Grand Prix sprint race on May 2, 2026, because of an engine technical infringement. Bortoleto finished 11th in the sprint race before the ruling. The FIA found that his car’s intake air pressure exceeded the maximum permitted limit of 4.8 barA.
Audi accepted that the FIA measured the pressure above 4.8 barA but argued it occurred over one lap due to unexpected temperature rises. However, FIA stewards ruled that the car must comply at all times, which it did not. Bortoleto sat out the start of qualifying after this issue.
Nico Hulkenberg, Bortoleto’s team-mate, did not start the sprint race due to a mechanical failure. Meanwhile, Bortoleto’s car was dismantled in the Audi garage during qualifying. The situation worsened when his car emitted smoke during the cooldown lap after qualifying, indicating a potential brake issue.
Bortoleto started the main race from 22nd position due to his disqualification. Hulkenberg managed to qualify for the main race after repairs were made to his car. This incident marked the third time in five events that an Audi driver failed to start due to engine problems.
Gabriel Bortoleto expressed frustration, stating, “My brakes are on fire man.” This incident adds to Audi’s struggles in the current Formula 1 season, with multiple engine-related issues affecting their drivers.
