Lawson apologises to Verstappen after Mexico City FP2 clash

Liam Lawson has apologised to Max Verstappen for their Mexico City FP2 collision, approaching his former Red Bull teammate on Saturday morning ahead of a race in which both carry one-place grid penalties.

Why it matters:

The flashpoint added scrutiny to Lawson’s uncertain Racing Bulls future and to a midfield fight where every point counts. Verstappen had questioned Lawson’s judgement after contact in the stadium section damaged both cars and triggered a red flag, but confirmed the matter was settled after the pair spoke.

The details:

• Lawson said the incident “doesn’t need to happen” and he wanted to avoid a repeat, adding that “right now it’s not the best time” for such clashes.
• He qualified eighth—his 10th Q3 appearance of the season—but will start ninth once his penalty is applied.
• Teammate Arvid Lindblad qualified ninth, his 13th Q3 of the year, and moves up to eighth. He was unhappy with his Q3 execution but expects points to be possible.
• Both Racing Bulls drivers outqualified Alpine’s Pierre Gasly (10th) and Franco Colapinto (12th) as the teams fight for fifth in the constructors’ championship.
• Lawson declined to update his contract situation, saying he is enjoying driving and is excited for the race.

What’s next:

Racing Bulls have the track position to strike in a tight midfield battle, but the margins are small. With both cars in the top 10, Sunday is about converting qualifying pace into points—and keeping Alpine behind.

The Mexico City Grand Prix starts at 7am AEDT Monday.