With Liam Lawson ending an up-and-down journey in Formula 1, the young New Zealander finds himself on the brink of a career-defining moment: whether Red Bull Racing will choose him or Yuki Tsunoda to replace Sergio Pérez as Max Verstappen’s teammate in the 2025. With Red Bull set to rebrand itself as Racing Bulls next season, the decision weighs on Lawson and the team.
From Reserve Pilot to Emerging Star
Lawson’s Formula 1 journey began in dramatic fashion in 2023 at the Dutch Grand Prix, when he took over from Daniel Ricciardo, who had suffered a hand injury in a crash during practice. In five races, Lawson has caught the eye with his composure and skill, making a strong case for a permanent seat.
Despite his impressive debut, Ricciardo regained his seat, leaving Lawson on the sidelines—until 2024, when Red Bull fired Ricciardo after a disappointing run, opening the door for Lawson’s return at the Singapore Grand Prix. Now racing under the VCARB banner (which will become Racing Bulls), Lawson is fighting to cement his place on the F1 grid.
“You are always under evaluation,” Lawson said to Motorsport.com. “Especially in your first few years in F1, with the way I am [strutturati] our contracts. We are always under pressure. You are never truly safe.”
A Season Under Scrutiny
For Lawson, the 2024 season was a pressure cooker, as Red Bull continued to evaluate his performances for a potential promotion in 2025. He acknowledges that the scrutiny never really ends:
“Last year, I was trying to get a full-time seat. Now, I have a full-time seat, but I’m trying to stay in Formula 1. It’s the same thing. We’re obviously trying to get the best results, but I don’t think it really changes your state of mind.”
Lawson’s versatility has been evident throughout his career, with experiences in Japanese Super Formula and the DTM sharpening his driving acumen. Max Verstappen, the reigning Red Bull champion, also noticed his exploits.
Mentorship da Verstappen
Lawson revealed that Verstappen followed his racing career closely, even offering advice during his time as a reserve driver:
“Max has always been very kind to me over the years. I was returning from a Super Formula race and Max was telling me about something that had happened. And I was like, ‘Dude, why were you watching that?’”
Verstappen’s mentorship has undoubtedly boosted Lawson’s confidence, but should Lawson secure the prized Red Bull seat, he knows the camaraderie with Verstappen will turn into fierce competition.
“If I get the seat, I know Max will do everything he can to dominate me,” Lawson admitted. “That’s just who he is. But this is the challenge I want.”
The Red Bull Dilemma: Lawson or Tsunoda?
The decision facing Red Bull is by no means simple. Yuki Tsunoda, Lawson’s current teammate, has also reclaimed his position with consistent performances. Both drivers have shown they can give their all, but Red Bull’s preference may depend on long-term potential and synergy with Verstappen.
Tsunoda brings with him three seasons of F1 experience and a growing reputation for maturity, while Lawson offers a fresh and hungry perspective—qualities that team bosses like Christian Horner and Helmut Marko highly value.
What’s Lawson Waiting For?
While the F1 paddock awaits Red Bull’s final decision, Lawson remains focused on proving he belongs among the sport’s elite. His performances have already shown that he has the talent to compete at the highest level, but competing against Verstappen in the same car will be a monumental test of skill and resilience.
Should Lawson secure his seat, he will enter the lion’s den, facing one of the most dominant drivers in F1 history. But for a driver who thrives under pressure, it’s a challenge he seems ready to take on.
Can Liam Lawson rise to the occasion and challenge Verstappen’s supremacy? Or will Yuki Tsunoda’s consistency secure his spot? The answer will shape Red Bull’s path—and Lawson’s career—for years to come.
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