Liam Lawson described his Formula 1 outing as “a crazy experience” after linking up with AlphaTauri during practice for the Belgian Grand Prix.
Red Bull and AlphaTauri reserve Lawson replaced Pierre Gasly during the opening one-hour session at Spa-Francorchamps as the team used one of its two mandatory rookie outings for the year.
Lawson participated in Formula 2 practice on Friday before switching to Formula 1 with AlphaTauri, marking his second appearance for the team, following his test day in Abu Dhabi last December.
Lawson finished slowest of the 19 drivers who posted a time but his prospects of improving on his benchmark were thwarted when rain fell at Spa-Francorchamps during the closing minutes of the session.
“I’ve enjoyed getting to drive the car around such an iconic track, it’s been a crazy experience,” said Lawson.
“The car was great to drive, the limit is so much further than I was ready for, it took a bit of time to get used to that.
“I think I built up the pace steadily on the Hards and was ready to push on the Softs at the end, so it’s a bit of a shame I didn’t get the opportunity to really go for it.
“I want to say a big thank you to AlphaTauri and Red Bull for giving me this opportunity. It’s been really cool spending the weekend with the team, it’s a crazy step up from F2.
“There’s so many more people than I’m used to, but having this opportunity is really great for us young drivers so we can understand what it’s like in an F1 team and learn as much as we can.
“I’ve loved every second of today and am extremely appreciative for this opportunity.”
Lawson went on to qualify in sixth place for Formula 2’s Feature Race.
