As the Formula 1 offseason heats up, all eyes are on Liam Lawson, the 22-year-old Kiwi sensation, who has emerged as a favorite to replace Sergio Perez at Red Bull Racing. After an impressive midseason debut with AlphaTauri in 2024, Lawson has proven he has the speed, adaptability, and potential to compete at the sport’s highest level.
With Red Bull reportedly undecided about their 2025 driver lineup, rumors suggest the team is leaning toward promoting Lawson while ousting the underperforming Perez. However, a lack of clarity from Red Bull has left the rising star impatiently waiting for a decision.
Lawson’s Strong Case for Promotion
Lawson stepped into AlphaTauri midseason under challenging circumstances, replacing Daniel Ricciardo. Despite the steep learning curve, the Kiwi delivered consistent performances and regularly contended for points, solidifying his reputation as one of the most promising talents in Formula 1.
Reflecting on his 2024 stint, Red Bull boss Christian Horner expressed confidence in Lawson’s capabilities:
“I think Liam, in challenging circumstances, has done a very good job. If you analyze what he’s done in the time that he’s had and the race pace he’s had, I think he’s done a good job.”
The Perez Conundrum
Sergio Perez’s future at Red Bull has been under scrutiny after a lackluster 2024 season. With multiple Q1 exits and an inability to consistently deliver points, Perez’s performances contributed to Red Bull’s drop to third in the Constructors’ Championship—a rare misstep for the dominant team.
While rumors swirl that Red Bull has already decided to part ways with Perez, no official announcement has been made, leaving Lawson’s future hanging in the balance.
Lawson’s Growing Impatience
Lawson, whose goal remains securing a full-time F1 seat, has voiced frustration over the delay in Red Bull’s decision-making process.
“I don’t know yet. Obviously, my goal is to be in Formula 1 next year, but I don’t know where that’ll be right now,” Lawson admitted. “I would hope in the next few days. I hope they don’t leave me hanging too long.”
The Kiwi is reportedly in direct competition with Yuki Tsunoda, who also tested Red Bull’s chassis post-season, as the team evaluates its options for 2025.
Red Bull’s Dilemma: Time and Preparation
Red Bull faces mounting pressure to finalize their driver lineup, as the team must focus on major personnel changes and developing their 2025 chassis. Delaying the decision risks hampering preseason preparations, as drivers need time to integrate into the team and adapt to the car.
“Milton Keynes has to take a final call on the drivers for the coming season so they can start training as soon as possible,” a source close to the team stated.
What’s Next for Liam Lawson?
While Lawson has impressed in his short time with AlphaTauri, his future hinges on Red Bull’s internal discussions. If promoted, he would partner with Max Verstappen, offering Red Bull a youthful, dynamic lineup for 2025. If not, Lawson risks losing momentum in his career, as limited seats remain available elsewhere on the grid.
Red Bull’s decision will have far-reaching implications for both drivers and the team’s trajectory. For now, the paddock—and Liam Lawson—waits with bated breath as Milton Keynes prepares to announce its verdict. Will the Kiwi talent get his big break, or will Red Bull opt for continuity in the face of change? The answer will shape the 2025 F1 grid in dramatic fashion.
