Kiwi Formula 1 driver Liam Lawson has finished seventh at the Chinese Grand Prix sprint race after charging through the field from 13th on the grid.
The Racing Bulls driver gained six places during the 19-lap race, helped by a strategy call to start on hard tyres while several other drivers opted for the medium compound.
Lawson steadily worked his way forward around the Shanghai International Circuit before a safety car on lap 14 caused by Audi’s Nico Hulkenburg reshuffled the field.
While a number of drivers headed into the pits, Lawson stayed out on track, moving up to fifth and eventually crossing the line in seventh.
It marks the Kiwi’s first points finish of the season so far, taking home two points after failing to score points during last week’s race in Melbourne.
He was the highest-finishing Red Bull backed driver of the day, with fellow Racing Bulls driver Arvid Lindblad failing to finish the race after contact during the opening lap.
At the front of the race, George Russell converted pole position into a dominant victory, continuing a strong run of form for Mercedes.
Ferrari secured the remaining podium places, with Charles Leclerc second and Lewis Hamilton third.
Qualifying for tomorrow’s Chinese Grand Prix main race (8pm NZT) will take place later this evening.
SHARE ME