Racing Bulls respond to punchy Max Verstappen claim about Liam Lawson

Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane has dismissed Max Verstappen's comments about Liam Lawson after the Red Bull driver and the New Zealander collided during FP2 at the Mexico City Grand Prix.

Permane, who described the clash as "unnecessary", otherwise defended Lawson after Verstappen's cutting remarks about the 24-year-old's F1 future.

He insisted it was not a case of "picking a fight" after the Dutchman's bullish and forthright remarks suggested Lawson should think more carefully about his actions and how he conducts himself.

Asked to share his perspective of the incident, Permane offered an overview as to how both came to be vying for the same spot of tarmac at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez.

"So when you're doing a lap here, an out lap or a cool-down lap, one thing that's really important is to do the last sector fast because doing that gives you tyres for Turn 1," he explained.

"Without that, you risk front locking and things like that. They were both going for that, and I think if I describe it in one word, it's just 'unnecessary'."

Permane reacts to Verstappen's comments

Verstappen had suggested it was unwise for Lawson to cross him given his status within the Red Bull family, particularly given the precarious situation the latter finds himself in as he battles for his F1 survival.

But when Verstappen's remarks were put to Permane, he replied: "That's not the case.

"Look, I'm sure they've both got their opinion on it. I think when they [look at it] in the cold light of day, they'll be calm and think, actually, we could have both done better.

"I know they've both been to the stewards. I don't know what the outcome of that is yet, but, like I say, I don't think anyone's picking a fight with anyone. That's for sure.

"I think it's just one of those things, and as I say, unnecessary."