Liam Lawson, a 22-year-old New Zealander, will replace Sergio Perez as Max Verstappen’s Red Bull team-mate for the 2025 Formula 1 season after outpacing Yuki Tsunoda for the promotion from Red Bull’s junior squad.
Red Bull have officially confirmed Liam Lawson as Max Verstappen’s team-mate for the 2025 Formula 1 season, marking an exciting new chapter not just for Lawson, but for the entire Red Bull Racing team. The announcement underscores Lawson’s impressive track record and resilience, having successfully outperformed his former team-mate Yuki Tsunoda in the selection process to ascend from the Red Bull junior team, known as RB.
The announcement was made on Thursday, which came less than a day after Sergio Perez’s departure from the team was confirmed. Lawson expressed immense gratitude and excitement through his initial statements following the confirmation, stating, “To be announced as an Oracle Red Bull Racing Driver is a lifelong dream for me, this is something I’ve wanted and worked towards since I was eight years old.” His words reflect the dedication and passion he has poured into his racing career since childhood, demonstrating a deep commitment to his aspirations.
Lawson continued, “It’s been an incredible journey so far. I want to say a massive thank you to the whole team at VCARB for their support; the last six races have played a huge part in my preparation for this next step.” His acknowledgment of the team’s support indicates not just a sense of humility but also an understanding of the collaborative nature of success in Formula 1, where every member’s role is vital.
He expressed his eagerness to work alongside Max Verstappen, a two-time World Champion, emphasizing the opportunity to learn from someone with such extensive experience and success. “I am super excited to work alongside Max and learn from a World Champion; I have no doubt I will learn from his expertise. I can’t wait to get going!” This statement captures Lawson’s drive and ambition, as he prepares to take on one of the most challenging roles in the sport.
Lawson is set to contest his first full F1 season after previously participating in a total of 11 Grands Prix. His journey has seen him step in for Daniel Ricciardo during an injury phase in 2023, and then take on the reins for the final six races of 2024 when Ricciardo was dropped from the team. Throughout these appearances, Lawson managed to finish in the points three times, consistently taking ninth place, which speaks volumes about his potential and ability to perform under pressure.
His notable performance during the 2023 Sao Paulo Grand Prix stands out; Lawson achieved his best qualifying result by securing a fifth-place position in challenging wet conditions. However, he faced fierce competition from Tsunoda, who scored more points during their time as co-drivers. Despite this, Lawson’s talent and potential captivated Red Bullโs management, especially team principal Christian Horner, who ultimately deemed Lawson the more promising choice for the future.
Taking on the role of Verstappen’s team-mate, Lawson becomes the fifth individual to partner with Verstappen since he joined Red Bull in 2016. This is a significant responsibility, as it is widely acknowledged that competing equally with Verstappen, who has clinched the last four World Championships, is one of the most daunting tasks in Formula 1.
For Lawson, his Red Bull race debut will occur at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, set for March 16, 2025, bringing the excitement even closer to home. This debut opportunity not only holds immense personal significance but also highlights Lawson’s rapid rise through the ranks of a prestigious racing team.
As for who will take Lawson’s place in the junior team RB, discussions are ongoing. The 20-year-old French driver Isack Hadjar, also a product of Red Bullโs junior program, is currently considered the frontrunner to fill Lawsonโs seat, adding another layer of anticipation as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
World of sports 
Leave a comment