Alex Albon has warned Liam Lawson it would be wise to gain more Formula 1 experience at RB F1 before taking on Max Verstappen at Red Bull.
Lawson's impressive performance since his return has him tipped for a possible promotion to Red Bull to replace the struggling Sergio Perez.
Getting a seat at Red Bull would mark a situation comparable to that of Albon, who had 12 races under his belt when he was promoted.
Albon managed to retain his place in 2020, but a disastrous campaign with a wayward Red Bull RB16 saw him lose the wheel to current holder Perez.
“Liam is in a win-win situation!” confides the Williams driver.
“I feel like worst case scenario he's in an F1 RB for 2025, so in my mind is there a need to join the main team that quickly against Max?
“In my experience, it’s not a bad thing to spend a few years learning your craft a little more.”
“But of course, if there is an opportunity, you have to take it.”
Perez didn't mince his words towards Lawson when the two clashed in Mexico, saying his potential successor didn't have “the right attitude” an F1.
Albon believes Lawson's aggressive moves show the increased pressure he is under to prove himself at Red Bull.
“There is clearly a bit of pressure between the RB F1 drivers to get this seat, I think you can feel it a bit. I see it in the races, I see it in the maneuvers.”
“He and Yuki are two hungry drivers aiming for a place at the top, so I understand.”
Lawson also flashed his middle finger as he drove past Perez's Red Bull.
“I don’t think it’s pressure, I think it’s frustration with the other driver,” believes Albon.
“Personally, I wouldn't have done that, not in Mexico! At Checo's home race! He risked his life (laughs)! But hey, they're just drivers. Everyone is hungry.”
