Verstappen: Lawson's FP2 Move 'Not Very Smart' Amid Seat Pressure

Max Verstappen called Liam Lawson’s re-pass in Mexico FP2 “not very smart behaviour,” suggesting the Racing Bulls driver should be more cautious while fighting for his 2027 seat. Both missed FP1 due to young driver runs; their clash in the stadium section briefly red-flagged the session. Verstappen damaged his Red Bull’s floor but finished P5, with Lawson P9.

Why it matters:

The incident puts Lawson’s judgement under scrutiny at a delicate time. Racing Bulls have yet to confirm their 2027 line-up, and Nikola Tsolov’s FP1 debut—just a tenth slower than Arvid Lindblad—adds pressure.

The details:

• Verstappen overtook Lawson into Turn 12; Lawson tried to re-pass into the following left-hander.
• Verstappen bounced over the kerb, rejoined alongside Lawson, and damaged his floor.
• Red flag for debris; both continued. Verstappen P5, Lawson P9.
• Verstappen: “If I would be him, I would act a little bit smarter. Also when you’re fighting for your seat, it’s not very smart behaviour.”
• Racing Bulls TP Alan Permane called it “unnecessary” and said both drivers “can do better.”

What’s next:

Stewards will investigate post-session, with penalties possible. Lawson faces a double challenge—managing Verstappen’s criticism and rising internal pressure. His response in qualifying and the race could shape perceptions of his maturity and future.