2026 United States Grand Prix - Saturday

Allan McNish, Racing Director: “Today’s qualifying session was obviously not standard. Knowing Gabi would be starting from the back due to his grid penalty, we adjusted our approach to give Nico the best possible opportunity. Gabi played an important role in that and executed the tows very well. Ultimately, we fell just a tenth short of Q3, which shows how fine the margins are in this midfield. Nico qualified P12 and will line up P11 following Lindblad’s penalty, leaving us in a good position to challenge for points with the race pace we’ve shown. Gabi faces a more demanding afternoon, but his determination and ability to respond in difficult circumstances makes me sure that he will work his way forward.”

Nico Hulkenberg (Car 27):
FP3: 7h / 1:35.591 (19 laps)
Q1: 1:35.704 (6 laps)
Q2: 12th / 1:35.158 (6 laps)

"It was another very tight qualifying session, and unfortunately we just missed out on Q3 by a tenth. My first run in Q2 was pretty good, but we couldn't quite find that extra bit of lap time in the second run. In this midfield, those small margins make all the difference.

"Still, starting from P11 tomorrow, we're in a decent position. It's going to be a long, physical race, especially with how bumpy this track is. The start and opening lap will be important, but I think we can race the cars around us and have a good fight. There's plenty to play for, so let's see what we can make of it." 

Gabriel Bortoleto (Car 5):
FP3: 13th / 1:36.176 (23 laps)
Q1: 1:35.632 (6 laps)
Q2: 13th / 1:35.691 (6 laps)

“The car felt really good in Q1, and that helped me putting together a really satisfying lap, apart from the last corner. I knew I needed to give it everything out there, as I would be helping Nico with the tow in Q2, so it was nice to get that lap in. We know we have to start from the back tomorrow, so there was no real reason to push for more in qualifying.

"Still, I am optimistic for the race. Obviously, it is not easy when you are starting from the back, but overtaking is possible here, and I believe there will be opportunities for us. We need to be ready to take advantage of them whenever they come.”