Kiwi F1 driver Liam Lawson's race at the Mexican Grand Prix ended in disappointment after the Kiwi was forced to retire less than 10 laps into the race.
The Racing Bulls driver, whose future in the sport was set to be decided next week, retired from the race after sustaining front-wing damage following contact on the opening lap.
Lawson trailed into the pits during the Lap 2 for a front wing change and a new set of tires, but called time on his race just a few laps later.
Moment Liam Lawson narrowly avoids race officials at Mexican GP - watch on TVNZ+
It marked a fifth Did Not Finish (DNF) result of the year for the Kiwi — the most out of any driver on the grid.
The result comes at an unfortunate time for Lawson, who is understood to be competing against former teammate Yuki Tsunoda for the final Red Bull backed seat next year.
Lawson's current teammate Isack Hadjar was widely expected to be promoted up to the senior team alongside Verstappen after a successful rookie season, with F2 driver Arvid Lindblad likely to take the open seat in the junior team Racing Bulls.
That left Lawson and Tsunoda — who finished the Mexican Grand Prix in 11th — likely vying for the final spot.
Lawson currently sat 15th in the World Drivers' Standings after the race.
Polesitter Lando Norris cruised to a commanding victory around the Mexico City circuit, finishing more than 30 seconds ahead of Charles Leclerc in second, with Max Verstappen completing the podium in third.
The win sees Norris reclaim the championship lead from teammate Oscar Piastri, who crossed the line in fifth.
Verstappen’s third-place finish keeps him in striking distance of the title, closing the gap between himself and Norris to just 36 points.
Rookie Haas driver Oliver Bearman finished in fourth place to secure his career-best Formula 1 result.
With less than five races remaining for the 2026 season, it's all to play for in the championship battle.
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