Liam Lawson disqualified in Mexico

Liam Lawson, driving for Racing Bulls, was disqualified from the Mexican Grand Prix qualifying session due to an electrical system irregularity in his car. The disqualification was announced by FIA stewards several hours after the session ended.

Grid position penalty

Lawson had already been penalized one grid position earlier in the weekend after a collision with Max Verstappen. Now, he is placed at the back of the grid, a severe punishment given that he had qualified for the final stage of qualifying, Q3.

Electrical system anomaly

An irregularity was detected in Lawson's car's electrical system shortly after qualifying. The FIA technical delegate reported the issue, and checks revealed an anomaly in the power reduction of the MGU-K, the system that recovers and deploys electrical energy.

Regulation violation

The infringement occurred during Lawson's best lap in Q2. The reduction of electrical power did not meet the limits set by articles C5.12.6 and C5.12.7 of the technical regulations, which specify how energy must be deployed during a lap.

Stewards' explanation

The stewards explained that Lawson did not immediately release the accelerator after completing his fast lap. This delayed the system's ability to reduce energy deployment quickly enough, violating the regulations.

Racing Bulls' response

Racing Bulls acknowledged the irregularity but claimed it did not provide any performance advantage. The stewards dismissed this argument, stating that compliance with regulations is mandatory at all times.

Voluntary report considered

The stewards noted that Racing Bulls had voluntarily reported the infringement. However, they stated that the regulations required a disqualification regardless of any mitigating circumstances.

Qualifying results canceled

Lawson’s qualifying results are now nullified. To race on Sunday, he must receive permission from the stewards, typically granted if his practice times show he can perform adequately.

Potential adjustments for Racing Bulls

Racing Bulls may adjust the car's settings or replace components under parc fermé rules, allowing Lawson to start from the pit lane instead of the back of the grid. This could offer strategic flexibility for the team.

Strategic challenges for Lawson

The disqualification places significant pressure on Lawson, who now aims to minimize the impact of starting from the back. On a track known for difficult overtaking, this is a major setback after previously strong qualifying performances.