FIA release new statement after terrifying Liam Lawson-F1 marshal incident

The FIA has released a new statement following the terrifying incident in the Mexico City GP involving Liam Lawson and two F1 marshals. 

On the third lap at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, Lawson exited the pit lane as normal for repairs after an opening lap collision with Williams' Carlos Sainz. 

Due to debris on the circuit, a double-waved yellow flag was waved in the first few corners. As Lawson entered the first corner, he came across two marshals collecting debris, who suddenly ran across the circuit. 

It resulted in a terrifying near-miss, with Lawson having stressed over the radio that he "nearly killed" one of the marshals. 

While the FIA released an initial statement after the grand prix, on Friday evening it released an additional statement to confirm Lawson was not at fault, as suggested by Mexico's motorsport federation, and that a full investigation remains ongoing.

The FIA's statement read: Whilst the investigation remains ongoing, we acknowledge that any situation where marshals find themselves on track in front of oncoming cars is something we never want to see, and hence it is natural that such an incident will provoke concern and numerous comments. 

"It is fortunate this incident did not result in any serious consequences, but we are conducting an internal investigation to understand exactly what happened and to identify any areas where procedures can be improved. 

"We are collaborating openly and transparently for this purpose with the OMDAI (Mexican Automobile Club) and with Racing Bulls Formula One Team, with the ultimate objective to achieve our common aim, which is to always improve the safety of our Sport.

"As with all serious incidents, the full analysis will take some time, as it involves collecting and reviewing all relevant evidence, including radio communications in multiple languages from the various parties involved, and synchronising all of these diverse inputs. The findings will be shared once the review is complete.

"Having analysed the telemetry from the incident, we can confirm that the driver of Car #30, Liam Lawson, slowed appropriately and reacted correctly to the double yellow flags displayed in the area, braking earlier than in other laps and passing significantly slower than racing speed into Turn 1. He is not at fault in this incident.

"Finally, we would like to express our sincere thanks to the volunteers and marshals for their professionalism and dedication — without them, our sport could not operate safely."