Lawson Survives Pre-Race Scare to Make Monaco Grid

Liam Lawson narrowly avoided missing the Monaco Grand Prix after a late mechanical scare threatened to keep him off the grid. The Racing Bulls driver told Sky Sports' Martin Brundle his car had "gremlins" and was unlikely to make the race, with the vehicle still in pieces shortly before lights out. His mechanics completed a rapid repair, allowing Lawson to emerge for his installation lap and thank his crew over the radio.

Why it matters:

Monaco is famously unforgiving, where overtaking is nearly impossible and grid position dictates the race. Lawson had secured 10th on the grid—his best qualifying since Australia—putting him in position to challenge for points. Losing that slot would have wasted a rare opportunity to build momentum in the midfield.

The details:

• Brundle reported Lawson feared he would miss the race entirely, with a pit lane start the optimistic outcome.
• The Racing Bulls garage showed the car in pieces as mechanics worked against the clock.
• The team reassembled the car in time for Lawson to complete his installation lap.
• Lawson radioed: "Well done everyone, very, very good job. I will try my best today to make it worth it."
• The 10th-place qualifying was a significant step forward for Lawson, who has struggled to match his teammate this season.

What's next:

Starting 10th at Monaco offers a genuine opportunity for points if Lawson can execute a clean race. He must avoid first-lap chaos and manage his tires on a circuit where track position is paramount. With the car now reliable, the focus shifts to converting Saturday's promise into a result.