Liam Lawson expressed outrage after a frightening near miss with two marshals during the Mexico City Grand Prix, saying the situation could have ended in tragedy. The Racing Bulls driver described the incident as “dangerous and unacceptable,” after almost colliding with marshals who were running across the track to clear debris.
Lawson, who started in 15th place, suffered early damage on the opening lap and was forced to make an immediate pit stop. As he rejoined the race, he was stunned to find marshals directly in his path at turn one. The New Zealander reacted swiftly to avoid them but was furious over the apparent lack of communication that had allowed them to be on the live track.
“Boxed, came out and then I got to turn one and there were just two guys running across the track,” Lawson said after the race. “I nearly hit one of them—it was so dangerous. Obviously, there’s been a miscommunication somewhere, but it’s pretty unacceptable. I’ve never experienced that before, and it really can’t happen again.”
His comments have reignited discussions about track safety and the coordination between race control and on-track personnel. According to initial reports, marshals had been dispatched to remove debris from the opening lap, but instructions were supposedly rescinded after officials realized Lawson had rejoined the race. Despite that, the marshals still entered the circuit as Lawson approached at speed, forcing him into an evasive maneuver.
The FIA has launched an investigation into the incident, confirming that marshals had been placed on standby to clear debris after the turn one collision. Officials stated that the decision to revoke the order for track entry was made when Lawson’s pit stop was noted, but it remains unclear why the marshals were still on the circuit afterward. The governing body assured that a full review is underway to prevent a repeat of the situation.
Meanwhile, race winner Lando Norris brushed off jeers from sections of the Mexican crowd following his dominant victory. The boos appeared linked to previous team orders at Monza, but Norris remained upbeat, saying fan reactions are part of the sport and even make the experience more entertaining for him.
The Mexico GP incident has raised serious questions about race safety protocols, highlighting the thin margin between routine operations and potential disaster in Formula 1.
