Liam Lawson Disqualified from Mexico City Grand Prix Qualifying

Liam Lawson has lost his ninth-place starting position for the Formula 1 Mexico City Grand Prix following disqualification by the FIA due to a technical infringement. The issue arose after Lawson failed to comply with the minimum MGU-K power requirement immediately after completing his fastest lap in Q2.

The FIA's summons document indicated that Lawson's MGU-K power output dropped from 350kW to zero after he crossed the line, violating the technical regulations that require a gradual reduction in power. Specifically, the regulations stipulate that the maximum power demand must not be reduced at rates exceeding 50 or 100kW per second, depending on the competition.

During the hearing, it was concluded that Racing Bulls, Lawson's team, did not gain any sporting advantage from the breach. However, the stewards emphasized that non-compliance with technical regulations is not excused by the absence of performance advantage. The team had self-disclosed the breach, but the stewards noted that precedents required a penalty of disqualification for such violations.

As a result of the disqualification, Lawson will start from the back of the grid on race day, complicating his chances of a strong finish. This outcome is beneficial for Alpine, as it reduces competition for fifth place in the constructors' championship, while Racing Bulls maintains a 33-point lead in the standings.