Liam Lawson Shines in Vegas, Qualifies P6

Kiwi driver overcomes practice incident to secure best grid spot since September

Apr. 10, 2026 at 6:52am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting an F1 race scene with overlapping planes of color and shape, capturing the high-energy and competitive nature of the sport.Lawson's impressive qualifying performance in Vegas showcases his rising talent and strategic positioning for a full-time F1 seat.Las Vegas Today

In a thrilling display of resilience, Liam Lawson defied the odds in Las Vegas, shaking off a near-miss during practice to secure a stellar sixth-place qualifying spot for Sunday's F1 race. Lawson's performance was consistent, finishing 10th in Q1 and sixth in Q2, ultimately earning his best grid position since September. This result builds on his recent momentum, including a seventh-place finish at the São Paulo Grand Prix.

Why it matters

Lawson's strong qualifying performance is a strategic move in his ongoing battle for a full-time race seat next year. By outperforming his rival Yuki Tsunoda, who will start in 19th place, Lawson has made a strong case for his future in F1.

The details

Halfway through FP3, Lawson and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton had a heart-stopping moment on turn 15. Hamilton, pushing hard on a fast lap, approached the corner at speed while Lawson was slowing to navigate the curve. To avoid a collision, Hamilton was forced to veer right and abandon his lap. The stewards reviewed the incident but decided against penalizing either driver, a decision that's sure to spark debate among fans.

  • Lawson secured a sixth-place qualifying spot for Sunday's F1 race in Las Vegas.
  • Lawson finished 10th in Q1 and sixth in Q2 during the qualifying session.
  • Lawson and Hamilton had a near-miss incident during the final practice session (FP3) on turn 15.

The players

Liam Lawson

A Kiwi driver competing in the 2023 F1 season, who secured a sixth-place qualifying spot for the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Lewis Hamilton

A seven-time world champion driver who had a near-miss incident with Lawson during the final practice session (FP3).

Yuki Tsunoda

Lawson's rival who will start in 19th place, providing Lawson an opportunity to outperform him and make a strong case for a full-time F1 race seat next year.

Max Verstappen

The reigning world champion who will start the Las Vegas Grand Prix in pole position.

Carlos Sainz

The Williams driver who will start the race in third position.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Lawson's strong qualifying performance in Las Vegas showcases his growing confidence and skill, and his ability to bounce back from a near-miss incident with Hamilton. This result could be a game-changer for his career as he continues to make a case for a full-time F1 race seat next year.