New Zealand racing driver Liam Lawson faced disappointment after being eliminated in the first stage of qualifying for the Chinese Grand Prix, held on March 23, 2025. Lawson finished in last place among the 20 drivers, unable to advance past this first round.
Joining him in this unfortunate outcome were Pierre Gasly, Ollie Bearman, Jack Doohan, and Gabriel Bortoleto, all of whom also failed to make it beyond the first stage. The hard truth for Lawson is that he will start from the back of the field in today's big race.
Throughout the qualifying session, Lawson openly expressed the challenges he faced. “It's just really tough, honestly,” he told Sky Sport after his disheartening performance. “The window is really small, it's not an excuse. I have to get a handle on it.” He reflected further on his struggles, stating, “It was a messy session, had we not dealt with traffic it might have been okay but it is still not good enough.” Lawson acknowledged the pressing need to improve, adding, “We should be fast enough on our first lap. I just need to get on top of it.”
This sentiment captures the frustration of an athlete eager to perform at his best but caught in the demanding world of Formula 1 racing, where a fleeting moment can dictate the outcome of a race. Lawson was made to reckon with the reality that he might have missed his opportunity due to time constraints. “It's just time, unfortunately, I don't really have time. To drive a Formula One car takes 100 percent confidence in what you're doing. It's not that I don't have confidence, but the window is so small that I just seem to miss it. I don't know how else to put it. It's just not good enough,” he lamented.
Despite his troubles in qualifying, Lawson earlier showcased his skills during the Grand Prix sprint, where he finished 14th. This event was marked by Lewis Hamilton's victory, demonstrating the competitive nature of the field. During the sprint, Lawson managed to impress observers, notably Red Bull boss Christian Horner, by overtaking five cars in the 19-lap event. This achievement, even if overshadowed by his qualifying struggles, hinted at his potential and capability on the track.
The results of the qualifying session saw Australian Oscar Piastri secure pole position, recording the fastest time. He will be flanked on the front row by George Russell of Mercedes. Lando Norris and Max Verstappen will start from third and fourth positions, respectively. Notably, Norris abandoned the final session, which may have implications for his performance in the main race.
As the drivers prepare for the significant showdown today, the competitive dynamics are palpable, showcasing not just the thrill of speed but also the raw emotions of the competitors. Lawson's journey reflects the highs and lows of motorsport, capturing the essence of perseverance in the face of adversity.
