Max Verstappen has claimed the incident with Liam Lawson during Free Practice 2 ahead of the Mexico Grand Prix was “not very smart behavior”.
Verstappen and Lawson were both looking to make up for lost time in the second hour-long session on Friday after missing FP1 with their seats occupied by young Formula One drivers Ayumu Iwasa and Nikola Tsolov respectively.
The pair were both on a hot lap at the start of FP2 when Verstappen attempted a pass on the Racing Bulls driver before turn 12.
Lawson then attempted to pass back into the following left-hander through the stadium section, with Verstappen bouncing over the curb on the exit and catching up with the New Zealander, damaging the floor of his Red Bull in the process.
A red flag was briefly flown to collect debris as both drivers continued to the end of the session, with Verstappen P5 and Lawson P9.
“I don’t think it’s called unlucky,” Verstappen said when asked if it was just an unfortunate encounter.
“What he was trying to do there might not have been very smart behavior. Ultimately, it’s not going to change my weekend, but if I were him, I’d act a little smarter. Plus, when you’re fighting for your spot, it’s not very smart behavior.”
Racing Bulls are yet to confirm their roster for the 2027 season, with Tsolov making his F1 debut this weekend in FP1, finishing just a tenth slower than Arvid Lindblad and possibly in contention for Lawson’s seat.
The incident between Verstappen and Lawson will be investigated after the session by the stewards, with Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane criticizing both drivers.
“I think one word, just ‘useless’ in a training session. Completely useless and I say that to both of them,” he said.
“I don’t know what Max said, I haven’t heard anything, but I’m sure he has his opinion and I’m sure Liam has his opinion, but mine does, it’s just not necessary and they can both do better.”
Gn sports
