Liam Lawson delivered the best Formula 1 qualifying performance of his career, securing P3 on the grid for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The Racing Bulls driver capitalized on a red-flagged, rain-hit session in Baku to lock in a top-three start, joining Carlos Sainz and Max Verstappen at the front.
Lawson Shines in Disrupted Baku Qualifying
Qualifying in Baku proved unpredictable, with four red flags disrupting the first two sessions. Lawson managed to set an early flying lap in Q3 before Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc hit the wall, triggering another stoppage.
As marshals cleared the track, light rain began to fall, making grip scarce and increasing the challenge for all drivers. Lawson’s early pace was enough to secure third place, marking his highest-ever qualifying result in Formula 1.
Lawson Reflects on Career-Best Grid Position
Speaking after the session, Lawson admitted the chaos made the experience surreal:
“Honestly I can’t even remember what happened, it was so busy. The car has been good all weekend, and when it needed to be in Quali, it delivered. A massive thanks to the team — they’ve been amazing.”
The Racing Bulls driver highlighted the mental challenge of pushing on a damp, slippery track:
“It’s always sketchy because you feel the rain on your visor, but you still have to push. You’re trying to fight your brain not to back off. It’s definitely tricky.”
Tough Race Ahead for Lawson and Racing Bulls
Despite celebrating his top-three grid start, Lawson acknowledged the real test lies ahead in Sunday’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
“It’s going to be a very hard race. We have a great starting position, but we’re aware of who we’re fighting around us. That’s what we’re focused on,” he said.
Other Drivers Affected by Baku Qualifying Drama
Max Verstappen once again secured pole, while both Mercedes drivers, Yuki Tsunoda, and Lando Norris improved their times late on. Rookie Isack Hadjar slipped to P8, frustrated with the outcome despite showing speed throughout the weekend.
“It was tricky. We handled it perfectly until the final corner of the final lap. The car is fast, but we’re not supposed to be starting eighth,” Hadjar reflected.
Conclusion: Focus Turns to Azerbaijan Grand Prix
With Lawson starting P3 and Racing Bulls showing strong pace, all eyes will be on how the rookie handles the high-pressure race in Baku. The Azerbaijan Grand Prix promises unpredictable action, with rain and close midfield battles likely to shape the outcome. of Baku as Lawson defends his career-best starting position.
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