“We need to start strong”: Liam Lawson emphasizes what VCARB can’t afford in Qatar

F1 Grand Prix of Qatar - Practice & Sprint Qualifying - Source: Getty
Liam Lawson of New Zealand and Visa Cash App RB talks to the crowd on the fan stage prior to practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Qatar at Lusail International Circuit on November 29, 2024 in Lusail City, Qatar. (Photo via Getty Images)

Liam Lawson highlighted the importance of maximizing performance at the Qatar GP, especially given its sprint format. Speaking to media, including Sportskeeda, ahead of the race weekend, the New Zealander emphasized the need for a strong showing under the lights of the Middle Eastern circuit to stay competitive in the tight battle for sixth place in the constructors’ championship.

With Haas and Alpine overtaking VCARB in the standings, the fight between the three teams remains incredibly close. Lawson acknowledged the unique challenges of a sprint weekend, where only one practice session is available before qualifying, making it essential to avoid the struggles the team experienced in Las Vegas. With plenty of points up for grabs across the sprint and main race, he believes a consistent and competitive outing in Qatar will be critical for the Faenza-based team’s ambitions.

Asked by Sportskeeda how critical it was from a team perspective in the championship to maximize the weekend in Qatar, Liam Lawson replied:

“I think it's just important to be quick from the start, to do the preparation before the event and know that you have what we can't afford is like, we started so far away in Vegas. We don't have three practice sessions to bring the car back. We have to go straight in the sprint quali. So we need to start strong, obviously that's the target. But obviously it's not easy to do, so I’m sure it's going to be it's going to be challenging.”

Liam Lawson uncertain whether Red Bull suspension has improved VCARB car

Liam Lawson believes it’s challenging to determine whether the updated Red Bull suspension has improved the VCARB car's drivability or overall performance. Reflecting on the Las Vegas GP, the New Zealander pointed out that the unique track conditions, including its surface and cold weather, made it hard to assess the effectiveness of the suspension updates.

Looking ahead to the Qatar GP at the Losail International Circuit, Lawson feels the track’s characteristics and more consistent conditions will help him better understand the improvements. With a critical battle for sixth place in the constructors’ championship, he hopes the upcoming weekend will offer insights into how much progress the team has made with its recent upgrades.

Asked if the new Red Bull suspension added to the VCARB01 had made a difference, Liam Lawson said:

“It's these are all very more things you know in terms of numbers and I think also with the with the way that we the track layout in Vegas, the temperatures and everything I think it was really hard to get a direct comparison on a unique place like that. Maybe we have more of an understanding this weekend and next weekend but it's really tough to say it right now.”

VCARB has accumulated 46 points so far, placing it eighth in the constructors’ championship. The Faenza-based squad, which held sixth place comfortably for much of the season, now finds itself battling to regain that position in the final two races. Haas currently occupies sixth place with 50 points, while Alpine sits seventh with 47 points, leaving the gap between the three teams razor-thin.

Securing sixth place is critically important for VCARB, as it represents a significant monetary boost in prize money—funds that could play a crucial role in shaping the team's 2025 campaign. With the Qatar GP being a sprint weekend and offering additional points, VCARB will need to maximize every opportunity to close the gap and surpass its rivals in the standings.

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Edited by Tushar Bahl
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