Verstappen fifth in Mexico practice after floor damage in Lawson clash

Max Verstappen finished fifth in the second practice session for the Mexico City Grand Prix after contact with Liam Lawson damaged the floor of his Red Bull, limiting the Dutch driver’s performance. The pair have been summoned to explain their driving to Formula 1 stewards.

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc set the fastest time, ahead of McLaren’s Lando Norris and Mercedes’ George Russell. Kimi Antonelli was fourth, one place ahead of Verstappen.

The incident happened early in the session. Lawson, driving for Racing Bulls, did not move aside for Verstappen, according to the ANP report. Verstappen responded angrily and cut across Lawson’s car at the next corner; the Red Bull’s floor lost a piece, affecting its speed.

The stewards will hear from both drivers over what the report describes as “dangerous driving”. Verstappen’s fifth-place practice result came after he missed the opening session, when Red Bull gave his car to Japanese rookie Ayumu Iwasa.

Antonelli, who had been ill and missed Thursday’s media day, was fit to take part in Friday’s practice. He could become Formula 1’s youngest world champion if he finishes in the top nine in Sunday’s grand prix.

A third practice session and qualifying are scheduled for Saturday, ahead of Sunday’s race. Verstappen holds the record with five wins at the Mexico City Grand Prix.