Liam Lawson disqualified from F1 qualifying in Mexico - here's why

Key Points:

• Liam Lawson has been disqualified from his ninth-place qualifying position for the Mexico City Grand Prix due to a technical infringement related to the MGU-K power reduction rate during Q2.
• The FIA ruled that Lawson's car failed to comply with the mandatory gradual reduction of electrical power, as the MGU-K deployment dropped from 350kW to zero instantly, breaching Article C5.12.6 of the technical regulations.
• Despite Racing Bulls' argument that no sporting advantage was gained, the stewards enforced disqualification, emphasizing that compliance with technical regulations is mandatory regardless of performance benefit.
• The infringement involved Lawson not lifting off the throttle immediately after crossing the finish line on his fastest lap, causing an excessively steep power reduction rate.
• As a result, Lawson will start from the back of the grid on race day, benefiting Alpine in the constructors' championship battle, although Racing Bulls maintains a significant points lead.