Lawson Referred to FIA Stewards Over MGU-K Breach in Mexico Qualifying
Summary
Liam Lawson has been referred to the FIA stewards after his Racing Bulls car allegedly breached MGU-K power requirements on his fastest Q2 lap in Mexico. He qualified ninth and already carries a one-place grid penalty.
Liam Lawson has been referred to the FIA stewards over an alleged breach in 2026 Mexican GP qualifying. FIA delegate Jo Bauer claimed the Racing Bulls driver’s fastest Q2 lap fell foul of minimum MGU-K power requirements. Lawson reached Q3 and is P9 pending the stewards’ ruling.
Why it matters:
The case tests how strictly F1 polices hybrid power deployment. Any penalty could alter Lawson’s grid position and the midfield order.
The details:
- Bauer said car 30 was “in breach of the minimum MGU-K power requirement” just after crossing the line on its fastest Q2 lap at 15:47:36.
- He cited Articles C5.12.6 and C5.12.7, alleging driver maximum power demand and ERS-K electrical DC power were reduced at greater rates than permitted.
- No penalty has been confirmed; the matter is with the stewards.
- Lawson’s weekend already included a Friday collision with Max Verstappen. Both received one-place grid penalties, and Lawson apologised.
- Racing Bulls principal Alan Permane called the clash “unnecessary” but rejected talk of anyone “picking a fight”.
What's next:
The stewards must decide whether the technical irregularity warrants a grid penalty or another sanction. With Lawson already P9 and carrying a one-place drop, further punishment could reshape the midfield in Mexico City.
Original Article :https://www.planetf1.com/news/liam-lawson-fia-investigation-f1-2026-mexican-gran...