Lawson Baffled by Sainz's Penalty Outrage, Still Awaiting Dialogue

Why it matters:

Liam Lawson is puzzled by Carlos Sainz's strong reaction to their Dutch GP collision penalty and his subsequent silence. The incident highlights differing interpretations of racing rules and driver conduct.

The incident:

• At the Dutch Grand Prix, Lawson and Sainz collided after a safety car restart.
• Stewards deemed Sainz at fault, issuing a 10-second penalty.
• Both drivers finished outside the points, while their teammates (Isack Hadjar and Alex Albon) scored well.

Sainz's perspective:

• Called the penalty a "complete joke" and criticized the "level of stewarding."
• Accused Lawson of preferring "contact and risk a DNF" over "two cars side by side."
• Suggested Lawson's racecraft needs "more experience."

Lawson's rebuttal:

• Expressed a desire for Sainz to talk to him directly rather than through media.
• Argued Sainz was the overtaking car and failed to place his axle correctly.
• Stated he was "just defending" and if it were his fault, he would've been penalized.
• Cited a past incident with Fernando Alonso in Miami where he learned F1 racing guidelines.

The bigger picture:

• Lawson found the penalty for Sainz, the overtaker, logical given current guidelines.
• Sainz, a Grand Prix Drivers’ Association Director, held extensive meetings with the FIA post-race, reportedly missing team debriefs.

What's next:

Lawson remains open to discussion, while Sainz's strong stance suggests continued debate over racing incidents and stewarding decisions.