Sainz backs Albon after Alonso's criticism of F1's lower half

Carlos Sainz says Fernando Alonso's criticism of drivers near the back of Formula 1 was a bit harsh on Alex Albon. Sainz also considers the 2026 grid the most talented he has seen in his 12 years in the sport.

Alonso made his remarks after an opening-lap incident with Sainz's Williams team-mate Albon at last weekend's United States Grand Prix. He said the quality of drivers in the lower third of the grid was very low, in what appeared to be a jab at Albon.

Sainz said he thought Alonso was referring mainly to Albon. “I really rate Alex very highly,” he said, adding that he enjoys racing with him.

Sainz said 2026 is the first year he has found himself battling at the back of the midfield; before then, he had always had a car to fight for points.

He said the rookies who have joined F1 in recent years are good, while acknowledging that he still makes mistakes. Sainz also acknowledged more incidents in the back half of the grid, but prefers to see that as circumstantial rather than a sign of lower driver quality.