The FIA is investigating why two marshals crossed the track in a near-miss in front of Liam Lawson’s Racing Bulls car early in the Mexico City Grand Prix.
Lawson had to pit for a new nose cone at the end of the second lap of the race after sustaining damage to his car from contact with Williams’ Carlos Sainz at the start, one of several accidents that would see him through the field into the first corner of the Autodromo Hermanos Rodríguez.
Returning to the track on lap three, Lawson was met with double yellow flags as he entered the first combined corner, and two marshals were running across the track in front of him as he exited turn one.
In a statement confirming that it was investigating the circumstances of the accident, F1’s governing body said: “Following the Turn 1 accident, race control received reports of debris on the track at the apex of the corner.
“On the third lap, the marshals were alerted and stood by, and after all cars had passed Turn 1, they entered the track to collect the debris.
“As soon as it became clear that Lawson had pitted, the marshal order was rescinded and double yellow flags were displayed in the area. What happened next is still under investigation.”
A double waved yellow flag indicates that the driver must significantly reduce speed, be unable to overtake and be prepared to change direction or stop due to the presence of hazardous materials on the track and/or the presence of marshals on or beside the circuit.
“We would like to underline our respect and gratitude to the local ASN, OMDAI and to the Autodromo Hermanos Rodríguez and its marshals who, as volunteers, play an important role in the safe and successful operation of our sport,” the FIA added in a statement.
“Their professionalism and dedication are invaluable to every event we host.”
Lawson suffered heavy damage to the side of his car in a collision with Sainz on the first lap, and was forced to retire on the fifth lap.
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