Gabriel Bortoleto was disqualified from the Miami Grand Prix sprint race on May 2, 2026, due to an engine technical infringement. The incident marks a challenging day for Audi, adding to their struggles this season.
Bortoleto finished 11th in the sprint race before his disqualification. The FIA found that his car’s intake air pressure exceeded the maximum permitted limit of 4.8 barA.
Audi acknowledged that the FIA measured the pressure above 4.8 barA but claimed it occurred over one lap due to unexpected temperature rises. The FIA stewards ruled that compliance must be maintained at all times, which Bortoleto’s car did not meet.
After the sprint issue, Bortoleto sat out the start of qualifying for the main race. His teammate, Nico Hulkenberg, did not start the sprint race due to a mechanical failure.
Bortoleto’s car was dismantled in the Audi garage during qualifying. It emitted smoke during the cooldown lap after qualifying, indicating a potential brake issue.
Due to his disqualification, Bortoleto started the main race from 22nd position. Hulkenberg managed to qualify for the main race after repairs were made to his car.
This incident marks the third time in five events that an Audi driver has failed to start due to engine problems. “My brakes are on fire man,” Bortoleto reportedly said after experiencing issues with his vehicle.