As Liam Lawson closes out a rollercoaster journey in Formula 1, the young Kiwi finds himself at the precipice 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 2025. With Red Bull set to rebrand as Racing Bulls next season, the decision looms large for both Lawson and the team.
From Reserve Driver to Rising Star
Lawson’s Formula 1 journey began dramatically in 2023 at the Dutch Grand Prix when he stepped in for Daniel Ricciardo, who had suffered a hand injury in a practice crash. Over five races, Lawson turned heads with his poise and skill, making a strong case for a permanent seat.
Despite his impressive debut, Ricciardo reclaimed his seat, leaving Lawson on the sidelines—until 2024, when Red Bull dismissed Ricciardo after a disappointing run, opening the door for Lawson’s return at the Singapore Grand Prix. Now racing under the VCARB banner (set to become Racing Bulls), Lawson is fighting to cement his place on the F1 grid.
“You’re always being evaluated,” Lawson told Motorsport.com. “Especially in your early years in F1, with the way our contracts are [set up]. We’re always under pressure. You’re never really safe.”
A Season Under Scrutiny
For Lawson, the 2024 season was a pressure cooker, as Red Bull continued evaluating his performance for a potential 2025 promotion. He acknowledges that the scrutiny never truly ends:
“Last year, I was trying to get a full-time seat. Now, I’ve got a full-time seat, but I’m trying to stay in Formula 1. It’s the same kind of thing. We’re obviously trying to achieve the best results, but I don’t think your mindset really changes.”
Lawson’s versatility has been evident throughout his career, with stints in Japanese Super Formula and DTM sharpening his racing acumen. Even Max Verstappen, Red Bull’s reigning champion, took notice of his exploits.
Mentorship from Verstappen
Lawson revealed that Verstappen has followed his racing career closely, even offering advice during his time as a reserve driver:
“Max has always been very good to me over the years. I would come back from a Super Formula race, and Max would talk to me about something that had happened. I would be like, ‘Dude, why were you watching that?’”
The mentorship from Verstappen undoubtedly boosted Lawson’s confidence, but should Lawson secure the coveted Red Bull seat, he knows Verstappen’s camaraderie will transform 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 that’s the challenge I want.”
The Red Bull Conundrum: Lawson or Tsunoda?
The decision facing Red Bull is anything but straightforward. Yuki Tsunoda, Lawson’s current teammate, has also staked his claim with consistent performances. Both drivers have shown they can deliver, but Red Bull’s preference may hinge on long-term potential and synergy with Verstappen.
Tsunoda brings three seasons of F1 experience and a growing reputation for maturity, while Lawson offers a fresh, hungry perspective—qualities team bosses like Christian Horner and Helmut Marko value highly.
What’s Next for Lawson?
As the F1 paddock waits for 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 machinery will be a monumental test of skill and resilience.
If Lawson secures the seat, he will enter the lion’s den, facing off against 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 embrace.
Can Liam Lawson rise to the occasion and challenge Verstappen’s supremacy? Or will Yuki Tsunoda’s consistency earn him the nod? The answer will shape Red Bull’s trajectory—and Lawson’s career—for years to come.
