An untelevised radio message from Liam Lawson during the Belgian Grand Prix has revealed contact with his Racing Bulls teammate Arvid Lindblad. The incident occurred on the opening lap of the race at Spa-Francorchamps on July 22, 2026. Lawson was attempting to overtake Lindblad when the contact took place.
Lawson reported over team radio, ‘Arvid drove into the side of me a little bit, so check the right side of the floor.’ His race engineer, Alexandre Iliopoulos, confirmed the team was checking the car. The contact forced Lawson to place two wheels onto the painted run-off area.
The FIA stewards noted the incident between the two Racing Bulls drivers. However, after reviewing the circumstances, they ultimately decided against initiating a further investigation. This decision concluded the official scrutiny of the on-track clash.
This marks another instance of on-track tension between the Racing Bulls teammates during the current 2026 Formula 1 season. Their rivalry has been a recurring theme in recent races. Both drivers are in their first full season together at Racing Bulls.
A notable prior incident occurred at the Austrian Grand Prix on July 1, 2026. During that race, Lindblad overtook Lawson despite Lawson being assured by his engineer that Lindblad would not attack. This led to a heated radio exchange from Lawson.
‘Last f*ing time I’m listening, man. I lift off 50 metres [early] and I get attacked.’
Another clash was observed at the British Grand Prix on July 7, 2026. Lindblad expressed frustration over team radio regarding a battery deployment issue after Lawson passed him on the opening lap. This further highlighted the competitive dynamic within the team.
Both Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad are confirmed Formula 1 drivers for Racing Bulls for the entire 2026 season. Lindblad is currently the sole rookie on the grid. Lawson has scored 39 points across ten rounds so far this season.
The team is currently tied with Alpine for fifth position in the 2026 Constructors’ Championship. This competitive standing underscores the importance of every point in the midfield battle. The upcoming races are crucial for their championship aspirations.
Attention now shifts to the Hungarian Grand Prix, scheduled for this weekend, July 24-26, 2026, at the Hungaroring. Lawson will receive Racing Bulls’ complete upgrade package for this event. Lindblad will make his first Formula 1 appearance at the Hungarian venue.
