After weeks of speculation, Red Bull has officially announced that Liam Lawson will replace Daniel Ricciardo, starting at the upcoming United States Grand Prix in Austin. The underperforming Ricciardo will step aside, making way for the 22-year-old Kiwi, who is set to prove himself on the world’s biggest motorsport stage.
Speaking to New Zealand’s Newstalk ZB radio, Lawson expressed his mixed emotions about the announcement. “Now it finally does sort of feel real,” Lawson said. “I knew about it for the last two weeks, but until it’s officially announced, it never truly feels set in stone.”
Lawson also confirmed that his Red Bull contract included a clause requiring the team to provide him with an F1 drive by a certain deadline, or he would be free to seek opportunities elsewhere. “There was a date in my contract that needed to be met, and things were moving in this direction,” Lawson explained. “A couple of weeks ago, they told me this was what was going to happen, and soon after, it was set in stone.”
Despite the monumental news, Lawson admitted he didn’t have much time to celebrate. “I’m obviously very happy, but with only six rounds left in the season, it’s going to be incredibly challenging,” Lawson said. “These drivers have already completed three-quarters of the season, so I’m coming in at a tough point, especially at tracks I haven’t raced on.”
Lawson’s new role is a significant milestone in his career, but he acknowledged the steep learning curve ahead. He has already spoken with his parents, sponsors, and everyone who has supported his journey, revealing the collective relief they all felt. “It wasn’t excitement; it was just pure relief,” Lawson shared. “I felt the same way because this has been a massive journey with so many people putting so much into it.”
With the clock ticking, Lawson knows he can’t afford to dwell on his success just yet. “We don’t have much time to let it sink in—we’ve got to get straight to work,” he added. The upcoming races will test Lawson’s mettle as he steps into Ricciardo’s shoes, navigating the high-pressure environment of Red Bull Racing at one of the most critical junctures in his young career.
For Lawson, this opportunity is the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifices, and the unwavering support of those around him. But now, as he prepares to hit the track, the real challenge begins: proving he belongs among the elite in Formula 1.
