Hulkenberg Slams Lawson's 'Signature Move' After Monza Clash

Liam Lawson has been criticised by Nico Hulkenberg following the Italian Grand Prix, with the Audi driver labelling the Red Bull racer's defensive style as his "signature move." The pair clashed at Turn 4 after the restart, forcing Hulkenberg off track and leaving Lawson with front-wing damage that cost him 30 seconds in the pits.

Why it matters:

The incident underscores the ongoing debate over defensive driving limits in F1. Hulkenberg's remarks suggest that despite drivers' briefings calling for stricter enforcement, some still feel stewards are too lenient in wheel-to-wheel battles.

The details:

• The collision occurred on the restart at Monza, with Lawson squeezing Hulkenberg wide at Turn 4.
• Lawson had to pit for a new front wing, losing 30 seconds and finishing 14th; Hulkenberg crossed the line in 12th.
• Stewards reviewed the incident but only issued a black-and-white flag to Lawson, with no further action.
• Hulkenberg's take: "He always likes to squeeze people when you go next to him. He never really wants to leave a car's width. It's his signature. It's no hard feelings. It's just a bit tricky."
• The German also felt the incident should have been penalised more severely, referencing the drivers' briefing where such moves were meant to be taken seriously.

What's next:

With the season heading into its final stretch, the spotlight will remain on how stewards police aggressive defending. Lawson, already under pressure to deliver at Red Bull, will need to refine his approach without losing his edge.