With the Formula 1 world abuzz about Red Bull’s potential lineup shakeup, Liam Lawson has emerged as the leading candidate to partner four-time world champion Max Verstappen for the 2025 season. The 21-year-old New Zealander, currently Red Bull’s reserve driver, is ready to step into one of the most coveted yet challenging roles in motorsport. If Sergio Perez departs, Lawson could find himself facing the ultimate test: going head-to-head with Verstappen in identical machinery.
“An Exciting Challenge”: Lawson on the Verstappen Factor
Speaking ahead of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Lawson shared his thoughts on what excites him most about a potential Red Bull promotion. Far from being intimidated, Lawson highlighted the opportunity to study Verstappen’s data and learn from one of the most dominant drivers in F1 history.
“For me, it’s more about the chance to learn from the best,” Lawson said confidently. “Max has been instrumental in developing that car, and the data he produces is invaluable. Having access to that level of insight is an opportunity you rarely get.”
From Reserve to Contender: A Rapid Rise
Lawson’s F1 career has progressed rapidly. After subbing in for Daniel Ricciardo during the 2023 season and then filling Ricciardo’s seat for the final six races of 2024, Lawson has logged 11 Grand Prix starts. His performances, including a top-five finish in wet conditions in Brazil, have impressed Red Bull’s decision-makers.
Despite his limited experience, Lawson’s unshakable self-belief stands out. “Whether you’re fighting in the midfield or at the front, the mindset is the same: execute the best job you can with the car you have,” he explained. “In F1, results speak louder than anything else.”
Learning from the Past: Albon and Gasly’s Struggles
Lawson is acutely aware of the challenges that come with being Verstappen’s teammate. Former Red Bull drivers Alex Albon and Pierre Gasly struggled in the role, both failing to match Verstappen’s relentless pace and consistency. However, Lawson sees their experiences as lessons rather than warnings.
“I can’t speak for how they felt, but I’m going in with realistic expectations. I know Max is the fastest guy on the grid right now, and you’re not going to be out-qualifying him by half a second. For me, it’s about taking every opportunity to grow and improve,” Lawson said.
Unwavering Confidence: Lawson’s Secret Weapon
Lawson’s mental fortitude has been a key talking point within the Red Bull camp. Described by insiders as “unshakeable,” the Kiwi attributes his resilience to his upbringing and years of scrutiny within the Red Bull driver development program.
“Helmut Marko has been critiquing me since I was young, and that’s built me into a stronger person. It’s prepared me for the pressures of Formula 1,” he said.
Red Bull’s 2025 Dilemma: Experience vs. Potential
Red Bull team boss Christian Horner and advisor Helmut Marko face a critical decision. While Yuki Tsunoda offers more F1 experience, Lawson’s strong showings and impressive adaptability make him a compelling choice. With Sergio Perez’s future hanging in the balance, the team has hinted that decisions will be finalized in the coming days.
“There’s no rush,” Horner said after Abu Dhabi. “We have all the permutations available to us internally. First, we’ll sit down with Checo to discuss the season and determine the appropriate way forward.”
Lawson’s Approach: All or Nothing
Lawson remains laser-focused on securing a full-time F1 seat, dismissing the idea of backup plans. “I’ve always been focused on Formula 1. I’m here to be a Formula 1 driver, and if that were to change, I’d re-assess. But right now, my sights are set firmly on the grid.”
As Red Bull weighs its options, Lawson’s blend of talent, confidence, and hunger makes him a standout contender. Whether he’s racing alongside Verstappen or continuing to hone his skills at AlphaTauri, Liam Lawson’s future in F1 seems brighter than ever.