Williams confirms Alex Albon will miss the Sao Paulo Grand Prix after heavy qualifying crash

“After assessing the extensive damage to Alex Albon’s car, unfortunately the required repairs could not be completed in the short time between qualifying and the race. The team is therefore forced to withdraw Alex’s car for the remainder of the Grand Prix.

“Franco Colapinto will compete in this afternoon’s Grand Prix.”

HIGHLIGHTS: Watch the action from chaotic qualifying at Interlagos as Norris leads Russell and Tsunoda after multiple red flags

Williams team principal James Vowles also reacted to the news that Albon was out of the race, calling it a “heartbreaking” day for the team – especially after the driver’s DNF last weekend in Mexico from what was another promising starting grid slot.

“It’s a heartbreaking day for the team,” Vowles said. “We are here to race and nobody wants to be in this situation.

“The most important point is that all the drivers who had incidents in qualifying are okay, including Alex and Franco. Despite the best efforts of our hard-working, talented and robust team, there simply wasn’t enough time to fix Alex ‘ car in time for the Grand Prix.

“It’s a bitter pill to swallow at the end of a tough triple header, especially as both drivers showed tremendous pace this morning. We will focus on maximizing this afternoon with Franco and putting on a show for the incredible fans here in Brazil.”