Albon Reveals Surprise E-Foiling Run-In with Verstappen in Sardinia

Alex Albon has revealed a surprise encounter with Max Verstappen in Sardinia during the summer break, where the Williams driver struggled to master an e-foil while the four-time champion glided past with what Albon described as "complete peace." The unlikely meeting unfolded as Albon attempted to balance on the electrically powered surfboard, only to watch Verstappen race by sitting casually on the edge of his board.

Why it matters:

The encounter offers a rare glimpse into the off-track lives of F1 drivers and highlights the contrasting fortunes of two former Red Bull teammates. While Albon has been fighting at the back with Williams, Verstappen continues to set the standard both on and off the circuit, even in casual water sports.

The details:

• Albon recounted the story on Williams' Team Torque podcast alongside Carlos Sainz and team principal James Vowles.
• While e-foiling in Sardinia, Albon was passed by someone "going flat out" while sitting on the edge of the board, later identified as Verstappen.
• Albon admitted he was falling off his board while Verstappen appeared like a "Buddha" cruising with his legs dangling off the front.
• The drivers' partners, Lily Albon and Kelly Piquet, connected afterward and realized they were staying near each other.
• Albon's break also included trips to South Africa, the Dolomites, and training in Monaco.
• Since returning at Zandvoort, Albon has found little respite, finishing 16th in the sprint race and qualifying 16th for the Dutch Grand Prix.

What's next:

With the Dutch Grand Prix marking the return from the summer break, Albon will need to refocus quickly as Williams continues its uphill battle to escape the rear of the grid. The team faces a long season ahead with little sign of immediate improvement, making these off-track moments of light relief all the more valuable.