F1: Liam Lawson says criticism over McLaren playing British anthem was a joke

Kiwi Formula 1 driver Liam Lawson has addressed his comments on which anthem should be played for McLaren race wins, saying his suggestion the New Zealand anthem should be used was a joke.

Lawson garnered plenty of attention for saying in an appearance on the Red Flags podcast that it was ‘’complete bulls***” God Save the King was played by McLaren at podium finishes, given the team was founded by Kiwi Bruce McLaren in 1963 and still held the McLaren name.

Speaking to reporters ahead of the Las Vegas Grand Prix this weekend, however, Lawson clarified his comments were made in jest.

“I think this is stuff that I’m learning in Formula 1,” Lawson said when asked if he had received any feedback from McLaren.

“I was laughing when I mentioned this comment in a podcast. And it was more of a joke, but obviously it got taken very literally.

“Obviously, I’m very proud to be from New Zealand and our motorsport history. Bruce McLaren is somebody who is an absolute icon in New Zealand in motorsport. So somebody I looked up to and learned a lot about, let’s say, when I was younger.”

On the podcast, Lawson pointed out that Red Bull Racing played the Austrian anthem – where the energy drink juggernaut is based – despite the Formula 1 team being based in the UK.

“Red Bull play the Austrian national anthem and the team’s based in the UK. McLaren’s based in the UK, but it’s a New Zealand team.

“It’s complete bulls***, that’s what it is.

“Honestly. Especially if you’re from New Zealand ... because Bruce McLaren is an absolute legend.”