Challenge for Racing Bulls Driver

Liam Lawson of Racing Bulls will not start the Formula 1 Mexico City Grand Prix from his originally qualified ninth position. The disqualification comes as a result of a technical infringement that occurred during the qualifying session.

Details of the Infringement

During the qualifying rounds held at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, Lawson managed to secure a spot in Q3, leading the Racing Bulls team to place eighth and ninth. However, following a review by the FIA, it was found that Lawson did not comply with the minimum requirements for the MGU-K system, specifically right after completing his fastest lap in Q2.

The FIA indicated that Lawson’s vehicle experienced a drop in MGU-K power output due to running out of battery too quickly, causing an instantaneous reduction from 350 kW to zero, which breaches the regulations. Proper protocol dictates that this power should decrease gradually.

Technical Regulations and Compliance

Article C5.12.6 of the technical regulations specifies that the driver’s maximum power demand must not fall at rates greater than 50 or 100 kW per second, depending on the conditions of the race track. Lawson’s failure to adhere to this protocol was underscored in a report by the stewards, who noted the rapid decline in power after he crossed the control line.

During the hearing, it was determined that despite Racing Bulls not gaining any sporting advantage from this oversight, the nature of the breach necessitated a penalty, leading to disqualification as a straightforward consequence of non-compliance.

Implications for the Race

The fallout from the disqualification means that Lawson will start from the back of the grid. This situation offers a strategic advantage to other teams, notably Alpine, as they contend for points in the constructors’ championship. Racing Bulls currently maintains a comfortable 33-point lead, but this disqualification may complicate their positions moving forward.