Carlos Sainz has rejected Fernando Alonso’s recent criticism regarding the driving standards at the rear of the Formula 1 grid. Alonso’s comments followed an opening lap incident involving Alex Albon at the United States Grand Prix last weekend. Sainz, Albon’s teammate at Williams, defended his compatriot and the overall talent level in the sport.
Alonso’s remarks came after his Aston Martin AMR26 sustained significant damage during a collision with Albon at Turn 11. The two-time world champion stated that the “quality of the drivers in the lower third of the grid is very low.”
He claimed the contact cost him “half a second or more” per lap and potentially a points finish in Austin. Alonso found Albon’s manoeuvre unnecessary and difficult to comprehend.
Alonso reiterated his stance ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix, clarifying his criticism was not aimed at a specific number of drivers. He suggested it was directed at those who “felt hit by that comment.”
The Aston Martin driver also noted that incidents are not necessary, particularly when drivers are fighting for no points. He suggested the cost cap contributes to this issue.
Sainz, however, labelled Alonso’s criticism as “a bit harsh towards Alex.” He affirmed his high regard for Albon and stated he enjoys racing with him.
The Williams driver asserted that the current Formula 1 grid, in 2026, represents the highest level of talent he has witnessed in his 12 years in the sport.
Sainz attributed the increased frequency of incidents at the back of the grid to circumstantial factors. These include more dirty air, the “concertina effect,” and more instances of multiple cars battling into a single corner.
He also highlighted that drivers in the lower third of the grid often have “very little to lose” compared to those competing for podiums or victories.
Sainz himself is experiencing his first season battling in the back of the midfield with Williams in 2026.
The Williams FW48 has struggled significantly this year, described as a step back from its predecessor. The car has faced issues with excessive weight, aerodynamic balance, and a general lack of downforce.
Williams has scored only 11 points in the 2026 Constructors’ Championship so far. Sainz has contributed six of these points through three ninth-place finishes early in the season.
Albon dismissed Alonso’s initial criticism, viewing the United States Grand Prix incident as a “good battle” and “very 50/50.”
He maintained his respect for Alonso but disagreed with the assessment of driving standards. Albon also pointed out that the current grid no longer features “pay drivers,” indicating a higher overall standard.
Charles Leclerc also supported the high standard of the grid. He described Albon as “exceptional” and noted that car performance, rather than driver quality, is the primary differentiator.
Fernando Alonso’s Aston Martin AMR26 sustained significant floor damage in the Turn 11 incident, which he claimed cost him “half a second or more” per lap and potentially a points finish.
The collision between Albon and Alonso at the Circuit of the Americas occurred at Turn 11 on the opening lap. Albon attempted an inside pass, but with a Haas on Alonso’s outside, contact was made.
Race stewards did not investigate the incident. Sainz also experienced an opening lap collision at the US Grand Prix with Arvid Lindblad, resulting in front wing damage.
