Liam Lawson cleared of any wrongdoing in the Mexican GP after recent criticism from Mexico's Racing Federation

The FIA has officially cleared Liam Lawson in the terrifying marshal incident during the Mexican Grand Prix. The Racing Bulls driver narrowly avoided hitting two track officials who ran across the track on Lap 2, prompting widespread criticism over how the situation was allowed to happen.

Days later, Mexico's Racing Federation suggested that Lawson had not slowed down or changed trajectory. However, the FIA has now confirmed that the 23-year-old reacted correctly to double yellow flags and did nothing wrong.

The Mexican Motorsport Federation’s earlier statement stirred controversy by suggesting the Kiwi “did not interrupt his line despite the obvious presence of marshals on the track.” The federation claimed onboard footage showed that Lawson maintained his steering angle into Turn 1.

The FIA’s latest findings have now settled the matter.

“Having analyzed the telemetry from the incident, we can confirm that the driver of Car #30, Liam Lawson, slowed appropriately and reacted correctly to the double yellow flags displayed in the area, braking earlier than in other laps and passing significantly slower than racing speed into Turn 1. He is not at fault in this incident,” the statement read (via Sky Sports).

The governing body also acknowledged the seriousness of the situation.

“Whilst the investigation remains ongoing, we acknowledge that any situation where marshals find themselves on track in front of oncoming cars is something we never want to see,” the FIA added. “It is fortunate this incident did not result in any serious consequences, but we are conducting an internal investigation to understand exactly what happened and to identify any areas where procedures can be improved.”

The near-miss occurred when Liam Lawson rejoined the track from the pit lane after early contact damaged his front wing. Between Turns 2 and 3, two marshals ran across the live circuit to clear debris from the chaotic opening lap that saw Charles Leclerc, Lewis Hamilton, and Max Verstappen run through grass.

Lawson, who was accelerating out of the pits, braked sharply to avoid them. The FIA also expressed appreciation for the volunteers and confirmed that all relevant data, including multi-language radio communications and video footage, will be reviewed before the final report is published.

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FIA statement comes amid growing uncertainty over Liam Lawson’s Racing Bulls future

(L-R) Liam Lawson, Isack Hadjar, Yuki Tsunoda, and Max Verstappen in Tokyo. Source: Getty

Liam Lawson’s immediate future within the Red Bull system remains unclear. The New Zealander’s early exit in Mexico - his fifth DNF of 2025 - came at a crucial moment. The Racing Bulls 2026 lineup is still undecided. Lawson, Yuki Tsunoda, and Arvid Lindblad continue to fight for the two seats, as Isack Hadjar is expected to be promoted to Red Bull to partner Max Verstappen.

Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies confirmed the team has no intention of rushing to make a decision.

“Yuki is making steps forward, the other kids are making steps forward as well, so we have no reason to rush a decision,” Mekies told reporters (via Formula 1.com). “We will take all the time we need, give these guys as many chances as they can have to demonstrate on track who was the best.”

The final call on Racing Bulls’ 2026 lineup will be made before the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on December 7, with Lindblad’s impressive P5 finish in FP1 at Mexico further tightening the competition.

Edited by Riddhiman Sarkar