Verstappen slams Lawson over 'not very smart' Mexico FP2 clash
Summary
Max Verstappen and Liam Lawson collided in Mexico FP2, triggering a red flag and damage to the Red Bull. Verstappen questioned Lawson’s judgment amid his uncertain Racing Bulls future.
Max Verstappen criticised Liam Lawson after their FP2 collision at the Mexico City Grand Prix, calling the Racing Bulls driver’s move “not very smart” as both faced the stewards.
Why it matters:
The clash cost Verstappen track time and damaged his Red Bull, while adding scrutiny to Lawson, who is already under pressure over his Racing Bulls future.
The details:
- Contact came in the stadium section at Turn 12 after Verstappen moved inside. Lawson fought back at the next corner; Verstappen bounced over the kerb and they collided as he rejoined.
- Debris briefly caused a red flag. Verstappen reported bargeboard damage and lost downforce; Red Bull boss Laurent Mekies said it disturbed the team’s session.
- Verstappen rejected the idea it was unlucky: “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 principal Alan Permane called it “unnecessary” and said both could do better. Verstappen was fifth, 0.311s behind Charles Leclerc; Lawson ninth, two places behind teammate Arvid Lindblad.
What’s next:
The stewards’ verdict will decide whether there is any formal consequence. For Lawson, the bigger issue is pressure: with his seat already in question, this was an avoidable distraction.
Original Article :https://speedcafe.com/f1-news-2026-mexico-city-grand-prix-max-verstappen-liam-la...