Alonso and Sainz to Start Dutch GP Sprint from Pit Lane After Penalties

Spanish drivers Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz will begin the Netherlands Grand Prix sprint race from the pit lane after receiving penalties for unauthorized adjustments to their cars.

Alonso, driving for Aston Martin, and Sainz, representing Williams, were classified in 22nd and 18th positions, respectively, during qualifying. However, both teams opted to modify their cars' suspension configurations while the vehicles were in the closed park area. This action resulted in penalties from the FIA, forcing both drivers to start the sprint race from the pit lane.

Alonso's qualifying session was hampered by reported issues with his new Honda engine and the active aerodynamics system, which prevented him from utilizing the straight-line mode. The Aston Martin driver also experienced a track excursion during SQ1, ultimately placing him last for the short race.

Carlos Sainz encountered problems throughout Friday's sessions, including multiple off-track excursions during free practice that led to damage to his car's floor and other components. Like Alonso, Sainz was eliminated in the first qualifying cut, joining a group of drivers including 'Checo' Pérez, Lance Stroll, Valtteri Bottas, and Oliver Bearman who will also face challenges from the back of the grid or the pit lane.