As Liam Lawson prepares to take on his first full Formula 1 season with Red Bull Racing, the 22-year-old New Zealander has already caused a stir with his pick for the best F1 race ever. In a conversation with ESPN, Lawson didn’t hesitate to name Max Verstappen’s controversial victory in the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix as his favorite race, acknowledging the polarizing nature of the event.
The Abu Dhabi Controversy: A Polarizing Favorite
Lawson’s choice of the 2021 Abu Dhabi GP—an event that remains one of the most hotly debated moments in F1 history—immediately raised eyebrows. The race saw Verstappen clinch his first World Championship under dramatic and contentious circumstances after a controversial decision by then-race director Michael Masi during a late safety car period.
“Wow, that’s really tough… 2021 Abu Dhabi… That’s so controversial, but…” Lawson admitted, trailing off with a knowing grin during the ESPN interview.
For Lawson, the thrill of Verstappen’s triumph overshadowed the controversy. It’s a telling choice for the Kiwi, who now steps into the Red Bull cockpit alongside Verstappen, one of F1’s all-time greats, for the 2025 season.
Stepping Into the Red Bull Hot Seat
Lawson’s promotion comes after Sergio Pérez’s disappointing performances in 2024, which opened the door for the young talent. However, joining Red Bull means stepping into the most competitive and scrutinized seat in Formula 1. Lawson is fully aware of the pressures awaiting him, particularly with the team eager to bounce back from a subpar 2024 season.
“You’re always being evaluated,” Lawson admitted. “Especially in your early years in F1, with the way our contracts are [set up] and the way the teams are judging us — we have performance clauses, so we’re always under pressure. You’re never really safe.”
Facing Verstappen: The Ultimate Challenge
Racing alongside Max Verstappen, a driver who has redefined dominance in F1, is both an honor and an enormous challenge. Verstappen, a three-time World Champion, brings a wealth of experience and performance that will set a high benchmark for Lawson.
Despite the daunting task, Lawson has shown no fear. The Kiwi has expressed confidence in his ability to meet Red Bull’s expectations and perform at a level worthy of continuing with the team. However, his debut season will be closely watched, especially with Red Bull needing to regain its competitive edge after rivals caught up in the ground-effect era.
A Turning Point for Red Bull?
The 2025 season represents a critical moment for Red Bull Racing. After years of domination under the new regulations, the team’s form faltered in 2024, allowing competitors to close the gap. The addition of Lawson to the driver lineup signals a fresh start, but the pressure is on both drivers to deliver results and restore Red Bull’s reputation as the team to beat.
Milton Keynes will need significant improvements in their car’s performance to keep up with Mercedes, Ferrari, and McLaren, who all made significant strides in the previous season. For Lawson, excelling in his rookie campaign will be essential to solidify his place in the team and avoid becoming another victim of Red Bull’s notoriously high expectations.
The Verdict: A Rookie with Big Shoes to Fill
Liam Lawson’s unabashed admiration for Verstappen’s controversial 2021 victory reveals a driver unafraid of embracing the drama and pressure that come with Formula 1’s top team. As he steps into one of the most demanding roles in motorsport, Lawson will need more than just talent to thrive—he’ll need the resilience and consistency that have defined Verstappen’s career.
The 2025 season promises to be a litmus test not just for Lawson’s potential but also for Red Bull’s ability to reclaim its dominance. Will Lawson rise to the challenge, or will the pressure of Verstappen’s shadow prove too much? The answer lies on the track.
