Not Very Smart, Verstappen Says of Lawson After Clash

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, November 1, 2026

Max Verstappen criticized his Red Bull teammate Liam Lawson for causing a collision during the second practice session at the Mexico City Grand Prix, resulting in minor car damage and penalties for both drivers. The incident highlights tensions within Red Bull's driver lineup ahead of a crucial race where title contender Kiril Antonelli aims to clinch the championship with a top-nine finish.

Max Verstappen criticized his Red Bull stablemate Liam Lawson as "not very smart" following a collision during the second practice session for the Formula 1 Mexico City Grand Prix on October 30. The incident, which occurred as the two drivers contested track position entering the Foro Sol section, resulted in minor damage to Verstappen's car and caused a red flag while debris was cleared from the circuit. Both drivers received a one-place grid penalty for the upcoming race.

Charles Leclerc of Ferrari posted the fastest time in the session, followed by McLaren's Lando Norris, with Kiril Antonelli, a title contender, placing fourth. Verstappen, a four-time Mexican Grand Prix winner, finished fifth behind Mercedes' George Russell and Antonelli.

Verstappen, 29, attributed the collision to what he described as Lawson’s "not very smart behaviour," stating the incident was avoidable and downplaying its potential impact on his weekend. Verstappen added that discipline and intelligence are crucial when competing for seats in Formula 1.

Lawson, 24, who races for Racing Bulls—Red Bull's junior team and regarded as a feeder outfit—acknowledged uncertainty regarding his future with the team despite an otherwise strong season. He has raced three times for Red Bull this year, stepping in for the injured Isack Hadjar. Lawson has consistently outperformed his rookie teammate Avid Lindblad and currently ranks ninth in the drivers’ championship with 77 points, compared to Lindblad's 11th place with 38 points. Their results have helped Racing Bulls secure fifth place in the constructors’ championship behind Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull, and McLaren.

On October 29, Lawson spoke candidly about the challenges of maintaining consistency in F1 and emphasized his focus on maximizing points rather than concerning himself with seat negotiations. "I’m not really sure what more is expected," he said, noting his change in mindset after overthinking similar matters the previous year.

The practice sessions in Mexico City have posed a grip challenge for all teams, with Verstappen acknowledging that while conditions could improve, they remain consistent across the field. The upcoming race will be closely watched as Antonelli pursues a historic championship, needing to finish in the top nine to secure the title on November 1.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.