Source: Radio New Zealand
Liam Lawson. AFP
New Zealand driver Liam Lawson says he’s still coming to grips with a “sensitive” car in Melbourne as he targets a strong start to his second full season in Formula One.
This weekend’s opening Australian Grand Prix provides uncertainty and apprehension for pundits, team management and drivers alike because of major changes to car specifications.
Several top drivers emerged unimpressed with the alterations, which include smaller, lighter chassis and new power units which comprise a 50-50 split between combustion and beefed-up batteries. There is also the introduction of 100 percent sustainable fuels.
Four-time world champion Max Verstappen was disparaging, the Dutch Red Bull great describing the changes as “anti-racing” and as like “Formula E on steroids” during pre-season testing.
Liam Lawson AFP
Lawson was less outspoken but admitted battery management in particular was playing on his mind after some mixed testing results for Racing Bulls.
“It’s very different from last year, much more sensitive, particularly when it comes to preparing the battery for a qualifying lap and managing over a longer stint,” he said.
“On top of that, the cars have significantly less aero, which makes them more difficult to drive and less forgiving overall.
“We became aware of the new regulations early last year and began preparing straight away. So by the time I first drove the new car, I had a solid understanding of what to expect and the key differences between the 2025 and 2026 cars.
“Some weren’t a surprise, but when you get in the car, you are definitely still learning how to optimise.”
Racing Bulls chose to retain Lawson’s services after last year’s roller-coaster campaign in which he racked up seven top-10 finishes from 24 races – the first two rounds having been behind the wheel for Red Bull before he was unceremoniously demoted to the sister team.
Liam Lawson of Red Bull Racing. 2025. PHOTOSPORT
The 24-year-old finished 14th overall, with a best placing of fifth coming in Azerbaijan.
Lawson has been paired with 18-year-old British rookie Arvin Lindblad at Racing Bulls, making theirs the least experienced driver lineup on the 11-team grid.
The Kiwi said it was hard to set goals for the season, given the uncertainty around car performance.
“It’s still difficult to say where we stand, as we don’t yet have a clear picture of our true pace,” he said.
“Of course, the objective is to score points, but on a personal level, my focus is on extracting the maximum from myself and delivering the best possible performance every time I’m in the car.”
There are two practice sessions on Friday, followed by a third on Saturday and qualifying.
Sunday’s race is scheduled to start at 5pm NZT.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
