Liam Lawson joins Verstappen criticism over Miami GP collision and team radio order

Liam Lawson expressed shock after being instructed to hand a position back to Max Verstappen during the Miami Grand Prix, accusing the Red Bull driver of driving into the side of his car. The incident, which occurred on the opening lap when Verstappen dove down the inside at Turn 11, saw both cars run off track and bang wheels. Lawson eventually retired on Lap 6 due to a gearbox failure, but not before a tense team radio exchange revealed his frustration.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's aggressive recovery drive after a first-lap spin drew criticism from multiple drivers, including Carlos Sainz, who remarked he 'thinks he can do whatever he wants just because he's racing in the midfield.' The controversy highlights the fine line between hard racing and over-aggression, especially when a top driver fights through the pack.

The details:

• Opening lap clash: Verstappen, starting second, spun at Turn 2 and dropped to the back. His forceful overtake on Lawson at Turn 11 resulted in contact, with Lawson keeping his position initially.
• Team radio exchange: Lawson's race engineer instructed him to give the place back, saying 'We need to give the position back to Max. Do it as soon as possible.' Lawson replied, 'Drove into the side of me. I don't understand.'
• Sainz also critical: The Williams driver was heard over radio complaining Verstappen 'pushed me off' during another overtake attempt.
• Lawson's retirement: A sudden gearbox failure caused him to clip Pierre Gasly's Alpine, ending his race early. Lawson admitted the car had poor balance and would have struggled to score points.

Between the lines:

Lawson revealed he didn't expect to have to yield, but complied. His comment 'I wasn't really going to be fighting today anyway' suggests he prioritized survival over a battle with a faster Red Bull. The repeated criticism of Verstappen's driving in the midfield raises questions about whether the reigning champion is adapting his approach when not in clean air.

What's next:

Racing Bulls will hope for a cleaner weekend in Imola, where Lawson can build on earlier promise. Verstappen's aggressive style is unlikely to change, but rivals may push for stricter race direction penalties if similar incidents recur.