Mexico City GP: FIA is investigating after two marshals crossed the track in front of Liam Lawson’s Racing Bulls car

F1’s governing body, the FIA, is currently conducting an investigation into a concerning incident that occurred during the Mexico City Grand Prix. The incident involved two marshals who crossed the track in front of Liam Lawson’s Racing Bulls car shortly after he exited Turn 1 on lap three, having just completed a pit stop for repairs. This took place against the backdrop of double-waved yellow flags, which were being displayed due to debris on the track resulting from first-corner collisions at the start of the race.

During the opening laps, Lawson had encountered difficulties after sustaining damage from an early incident involving Carlos Sainz of Williams. Following this damage, which necessitated a pit stop for a new nosecone, Lawson was trying to re-enter the race when the potential danger arose.

As he made his way back onto the track on lap three, double-waved yellow flags had been deployed signaling all drivers to exercise extreme caution due to the presence of a hazard. The incident underscores the critical importance of communication and protocol between race control and track marshals, as Lawson approached Turn 1 and the two marshals ran across the track just in front of him.

The FIA’s statement regarding the investigation highlighted that following an initial Turn 1 incident, race control had been made aware of debris at the apex of that corner. As a result, marshals had been placed on standby to recover the debris once all vehicles had passed safely. However, when it became clear that Lawson had just pitted, the instructions to dispatch the marshals onto the track were rescinded, but confusion appeared to have ensued, leading to the marshals crossing at a critical moment. The FIA is actively working to ascertain the series of events that occurred after that decision.

Double-waved yellow flags carry significant implications for drivers, requiring them to reduce their speed considerably, refrain from overtaking, and be prepared to change direction or stop completely to ensure safety on the track. The FIA emphasized its appreciation for the vital role of the marshals, acknowledging their professionalism and dedication as volunteers who contribute greatly to the safe execution of races.

Unfortunately for Lawson, despite his efforts to continue after the incident, his car suffered extensive damage from the earlier clash with Sainz. This ultimately forced him to retire from the race just three laps later on lap five. The incident serves as a critical reminder of the dangers present in motorsport and the constant need for communication and procedural adherence to ensure the safety of drivers and marshals alike during high-speed events. The FIA’s investigation will hopefully shed light on how to prevent such near-misses from occurring in the future, reinforcing the commitment to safety in Formula 1.