Liam Lawson highlights crucial 'chase' after strong claim made over FIA rule change

Liam Lawson has stated Racing Bulls is “chasing” car balance after the opening day of F1 action in Spain with the new flexi-wing regulations in play. The FIA has moved to stamp out how much the front wings can flex at high speed in Barcleona, with the teams having several months to prepare for the shift. A number of drivers issued passive responses on Friday when asked about the differences to the cars following the governing body's clampdown. Lawson, however, noted the car feels significantly different. “There’s definitely a difference, you can feel the difference,” Lawson said. “For every team, it is different. “For us, our car is in a good place right now - but we expect everybody to keep improving.” Racing Bulls enter the Spanish Grand Prix event following on from a double-point scoring result like time out at Monaco. Lawson ended FP2 from Barcelona in 10th, one position behind team-mate Isack Hadjar - leaving the former to commend the impressive start to the weekend.  “I think it’s positive, it’s a good start to the weekend,” he said. “It’s a good base to build on. “[Saturday] is really what counts, tomorrow afternoon. We’ll obviously keep working on improving the car. Everybody is chasing it. “Everyone’s car was probably a bit further away at the start of FP1 because of the new front wing. We’re slowly chasing the balance.”