Liam Lawson has revealed that he knew entering the Italian Grand Prix weekend that he would be taking a grid penalty. The Red Bull driver will start from the back of the grid at Monza after the team confirmed new components before qualifying.
The New Zealander's qualifying session was far from smooth, as he was blocked by Oscar Piastri in Q2, ruining his hopes of progressing into the top-ten shootout. However, the result was somewhat academic given the penalty already looming.
Qualifying Frustration, But Eyes on the Race
"It just wasn't ideal, we obviously left it to the end there to try and put a lap together. The tyres were pretty hot after just one lap, and not ideal getting blocked at Turn 1," Lawson told media including RacingNews365.
Interestingly, the engine allocation still belongs to Isack Hadjar, yet Lawson insisted the penalty decision was made well in advance. "It was planned before for the weekend so it was something I knew coming into it," he explained.
Strategy Shift: Long-Run Focus from the Start
Rather than dwelling on the setback, the 24-year-old has shifted his focus to race preparation. "It's why we spent yesterday focusing on the race," he added, signaling a mature approach to a challenging weekend at the Temple of Speed.
Read Also
Max Verstappen asks Red Bull to investigate a rear axle failure that hurt his Italian GP qualifying at Monza, leaving him sixth on the grid.
Gasly stuns F1 with maiden pole at Monza. Can he survive the heat and pressure? Full analysis of the Italian GP.
Oscar Piastri says he has no regrets over obeying McLaren team orders at Monza 2025, despite the controversy that followed. Full analysis inside.
Continue with Google
Discussion (0)
Join the Discussion!
Sign in easily to start commenting, replying, and interacting with other readers.
Latest Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!