Albon Faces Pit Lane Start at Chinese Grand Prix Sprint After Suspension Change
Published: March 14, 2026
Sprint Race Setback for Williams Driver
Alex Albon will begin the Sprint race at the Chinese Grand Prix from the pit lane following a setup change to his Williams FW48. The adjustment, made to the suspension, was determined to be non-compliant with FIA regulations.
Albon originally qualified in 18th position for the race.
“Atlassian Williams F1 Team changed the setup of the suspension of Car 23 under Parc Ferme, this not being in accordance with Article B3.5.7 of the FIA F1 Regulations,”
FIA Statement
Albon’s team has been mandated to start the Sprint from the pit lane.
Revised Sprint Grid
The revised grid sees George Russell of Mercedes on pole position, followed closely by Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes) and Lando Norris (McLaren). Here’s the complete starting order:
- George Russell (Mercedes)
- Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes)
- Lando Norris (McLaren)
- Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari)
- Oscar Piastri (McLaren)
- Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)
- Pierre Gasly (Alpine)
- Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
- Oliver Bearman (Haas)
- Isack Hadjar (Red Bull)
- Nico Hulkenberg (Audi)
- Esteban Ocon (Haas)
- Liam Lawson (Racing Bulls)
- Gabriel Bortoleto (Audi)
- Arvid Lindblad (Racing Bulls)
- Franco Colapinto (Alpine)
- Carlos Sainz (Williams)
- Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin)
- Lance Stroll (Aston Martin)
- Valtteri Bottas (Cadillac)
- Sergio Perez (Cadillac)
- Alex Albon (Williams) – pit lane
Looking Ahead
Despite the setback, Albon and the Williams team will look to make progress during the Sprint race. The Chinese Grand Prix promises to be an exciting event, with Russell aiming to maintain his pole position advantage.
FAQ
What caused Alex Albon’s pit lane start?
Williams made changes to the suspension of Albon’s car under Parc Ferme conditions, violating FIA regulations.
Who will start on pole position for the Sprint race?
George Russell of Mercedes will start from pole position.
What is Parc Ferme?
Parc Ferme is a designated area where cars are kept under strict FIA supervision after qualifying, preventing any further adjustments before the race.