Liam Lawson is back in Formula 1, and the young Kiwi couldn’t be more excited. After stepping in to replace Daniel Ricciardo in 2023, Lawson’s brief but promising stint has earned him another shot at the pinnacle of motorsport. With Nyck de Vries underperforming during the 2024 season, Vcard decided to hand Lawson the reins for the final six races, giving him a crucial opportunity to prove himself.
“A Second Chance in Formula 1”
Lawson made his F1 debut at the 2023 Dutch GP, filling in for the injured Ricciardo. Now, he’s been given a second chance to show what he’s made of. Despite being a relatively fresh face on the grid, the 22-year-old has shown enough skill and composure to be considered a serious candidate for a full-time seat in 2025. Heading into the United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA), Lawson is ready to make the most of his opportunity.
“COTA: A New Challenge”
While Lawson has experience driving at a number of tricky circuits, COTA will be a new challenge. Despite not having raced there before, Lawson feels confident after spending significant time on the simulator. “Although it’s a track I have yet to race at, I’ve spent plenty of time on it in the simulator,” Lawson said. “It has a great layout, so I’m looking forward to driving it for the first time.”
The US GP is known for its vibrant atmosphere and spectacle, which only adds to Lawson’s excitement. “I’m super excited for Austin and getting in the RB VCARB 01 for the first time. I’ve been to COTA a few times as a reserve, and it’s probably one of my favorite races to go to—the atmosphere there is amazing,” he added.
“Determined to Deliver for Vcard”
Lawson isn’t just excited to be back; he’s determined to deliver results. With Vcard locked in a fierce battle with Haas for sixth place in the Constructors’ Championship, every point counts. Lawson knows the pressure is on, but he’s ready to give it his all. “Just generally stoked to be back racing and working with the team to get the best results we can,” the Kiwi noted.
For Lawson, the next six races will be crucial in determining his future in F1. While Vcard has placed its trust in him to help the team finish the season strong, Lawson will need to prove he’s worthy of a full-time seat for 2025. His performance in these final rounds will likely determine whether he can cement his place on the grid for good.
“Eyes on the Future”
As he heads into the American races, Lawson is not just focused on the immediate challenges but also on the long-term goal of securing his place in Formula 1. With the potential to become a permanent part of AlphaTauri’s future lineup, Lawson’s journey has only just begun. If his past performances are any indication, he’s ready to make the most of this second chance and turn it into something much bigger.
