Liam Lawson's Aggressive Tactics Against Yuki Tsunoda at Italian GP Defended

Former F1 driver Perry McCarthy has staunchly defended Liam Lawson's aggressive tactics against Yuki Tsunoda at the Italian Grand Prix, despite the on-track contact between the two AlphaTauri drivers. The incident, which saw both briefly go off track, had initially drawn criticism for Lawson's assertive move.

Why it matters:

This incident highlights the intense pressure and ambition within Formula 1, particularly for a rookie like Lawson aiming to impress. It also underscores the competitive dynamic, even between drivers from associated teams, as they battle for track position and demonstrate their capabilities.

The incident:

During the Italian GP, with both drivers outside the points, Liam Lawson attempted an overtake on Yuki Tsunoda at Turn 4. Lawson moved to the outside of the braking zone but was not fully alongside when Tsunoda took his normal racing line into the corner. This resulted in contact, forcing both drivers into the run-off area and effectively ending their competitive afternoons.

McCarthy's defense:

Former F1 driver Perry McCarthy strongly argued that Lawson's actions were justified. McCarthy stated, "Liam was quite right to be on the outside, because if you can make Yuki break too late on the inside, Yuki can't make the corner." He suggested that many pundits overlooked this strategic element.

Lawson's objective:

McCarthy emphasized that Lawson's role was to challenge and pressure other drivers, especially in a "Red Bull junior team versus Red Bull senior team" context. By placing his car in that position, Lawson aimed to force Tsunoda into a more acute turn-in angle, potentially inducing a mistake. McCarthy concluded, "I'm totally in favour in Liam's tactics."