Solid result from Lawson in Japan

Visa Cash App Racing Bulls driver Liam Lawson is once again back in the points after finishing ninth at the 2026 Japanese Formula One Grand Prix held at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan.

“I’m very pleased with today,” commented Lawson. “From where we started and the doubts we had from yesterday’s issues, the team did a great job rebalancing the car, which led to a strong race.”

Having qualified 14th fastest, it was always going to be an uphill battle to finish in the points and Lawson comes away from Japan tenth in the Drivers’ Standings, two behind ninth-placed Max Verstappen and six ahead of teammate Avid Lindblad who finished in 14th, out of the points.

“The first part of the race was really tough, but we got the car into a better window during the Hard stint towards the end. We were also a bit fortunate with the Safety Car, which helped us move into the points. Without that, it would have been difficult to finish where we did, so it’s good to come away with something.

**Liam Lawson talks in the garage prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Japan – Photo by Andy Hone**

“That’s three point-scoring finishes in the last two races, which is a nice bit of momentum heading into the break. I’ll spend time training and with the team to reflect on the past month before Miami, as we keep working to improve.”

“It was a good result for us to finish in the points again and we feel very happy to have scored points at every race so far this year,” said Alan Permane, VCARB Team Principal. “Liam drove a superb race to fend off Esteban (Ocaon), although he didn’t look in danger of losing that position.

Liam Lawson driving the (30) Visa Cash App Racing Bulls VCARB 03 RB Ford leads Gabriel Bortoleto driving the (5) Audi F1 Team R26 at the start during the F1 Grand Prix of Japan (Photo by Simon Galloway/LAT Images)

“The timing of the Safety Car was unfortunate for Arvid (Lindblad who finished 14th), however circumstances like that will inevitably even out over a season. His learning continues, and despite that, he drove a strong race.

“We’re looking forward to a break now with some good upgrades to the car planned for Miami. Liam and Arvid will do a mix of training and simulator work in preparation for the upcoming races, but importantly some well-deserved rest as well.”

VCARB sit seventh in the Constructors’ Championship just two behind Red Bull Racing and 12 ahead of Williams.