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Liam Lawson’s Big Break: A Kiwi’s Journey to Formula 1 with Red Bull – “Since I was 8, I dream of being Formula 1 World Champion”

Publisher by Publisher
December 22, 2024
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 4 mins read
0
Liam Lawson’s Remarkable Journey from New Zealand to Formula 1: A Story of Sacrifice, Determination, and Second Chances – “My parents sold their house so I could keep racing”

ZANDVOORT, NETHERLANDS - AUGUST 23: Liam Lawson of New Zealand and Visa Cash App RB walks in the paddock prior to practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Netherlands at Circuit Zandvoort on August 23, 2024 in Zandvoort, Netherlands. (Photo by Rudy Carezzevoli/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202408230106 // Usage for editorial use only //

Liam Lawson’s path to Formula 1 has been one of resilience, sacrifice, and relentless determination. As the 22-year-old Kiwi driver steps into the Red Bull Racing seat for the 2025 season, he carries with him the dreams of a nation and the weight of high expectations. From his family’s sacrifices to his drive to prove himself alongside three-time World Champion Max Verstappen, Lawson’s story is both inspiring and a testament to the grit required to reach the pinnacle of motorsport.


A Family’s Sacrifice for a Dream

Lawson’s journey to Formula 1 has been shaped by his family’s unwavering belief in his talent. Speaking on the Talking Bull podcast, Lawson shared how his father, Jared, and the entire family made monumental sacrifices to support his racing career—including selling their house to fund his early days in motorsport.

“Dad’s been with me since day one,” Lawson reflected. “He always made me believe that I could achieve anything if I worked hard enough. Seeing him get emotional about the Red Bull announcement was something I’ll never forget.”

Recalling the moment he shared the news with his father, Lawson said, “He sat on it for two minutes, processing it, and then he got emotional. It was very cool. He went and got my mom and told the family. For everything they’ve given up for me, this is as much their achievement as mine.”


Joining Red Bull: Learning from the Best

Lawson steps into the spotlight at Red Bull Racing, taking the seat alongside one of the sport’s greatest drivers, Max Verstappen. The Kiwi driver is fully aware of the challenges ahead but is eager to learn from the world champion.

“I’ve got the best guy as my teammate to learn from,” Lawson said. “Max has been really supportive, even during my time as a reserve driver. There’s no one better to learn from, and I’m looking forward to contributing to the team’s success.”

While beating Verstappen outright isn’t the expectation, Lawson’s role is clear: shadow the champion, absorb his expertise, and deliver consistent performances. If Lawson can stay competitive and finish just behind Verstappen, he will have achieved what Red Bull expects of him.


Carrying New Zealand’s Flag

As only the second Kiwi driver in modern F1 history, Lawson’s rise to the Red Bull seat has sparked immense pride in his home country. With a population of just five million, New Zealand has a storied history in motorsport, but opportunities to compete on the international stage are rare.

“New Zealand has always been behind me,” Lawson said. “Motorsport has been big back home, but it’s so hard to make the step to international racing. I’m lucky to be in this position, and I’m extremely proud to fly the flag in Formula 1.”

Lawson’s connection to his homeland is evident, with growing support from Kiwi fans each year. “Every year I go home, the support gets bigger and bigger. It’s cool to see, and it motivates me to push even harder,” he added.


The Challenge Ahead: Pressure on Both Sides

The Red Bull Racing garage will be a pressure cooker in 2025. While Lawson is tasked with proving his worth, Verstappen must maintain his dominance. For Lawson, the goal is clear: absorb and learn while keeping the reigning world champion honest.

With performance clauses in his contract, Lawson understands the stakes. “You’re always being evaluated,” he said. “Especially in your early years in F1, the pressure is constant. You’re never really safe.”

For Verstappen, the challenge is different. As the established star, he must soundly beat the rookie—just as he’s done with previous teammates—to maintain his reputation as F1’s dominant force.


Looking Ahead to 2025

Lawson will make his debut for Red Bull at the 2025 Australian Grand Prix on March 16. With the team aiming to reclaim dominance after a challenging 2024 season, the pressure to perform is immense. Yet, Lawson’s resilience, combined with his family’s sacrifices and unwavering support, may give him the edge he needs.

“This is a dream come true,” Lawson said. “But it’s just the beginning. I’ve worked for this since I was eight years old, and now I’m ready to give everything I’ve got.”

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