In a move that cements Red Bull Racing’s commitment to nurturing young talent, Liam Lawson has been officially announced as Sergio Perez’s replacement for the 2025 Formula One season. The New Zealand native, who has steadily climbed the ranks through the Red Bull Junior Programme, will partner four-time World Champion Max Verstappen in what promises to be a defining chapter of his career.
The Journey to Red Bull’s Frontline
Liam Lawson’s rise to the top tier of Formula 1 reflects a career built on perseverance, talent, and adaptability. From joining the Red Bull Junior Programme in 2019 to making his F1 debut at the 2023 Dutch Grand Prix with Scuderia AlphaTauri, Lawson has consistently showcased his potential. Scoring his first points at the Singapore Grand Prix during his rookie stint further solidified his reputation as a driver to watch.
In 2024, Lawson returned to the grid with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls (VCARB), delivering standout performances like his points-scoring finish at the United States Grand Prix and a commendable drive in Brazil. These displays of resilience and skill ultimately earned him his promotion to Red Bull Racing.
“To be announced as an Oracle Red Bull Racing Driver is a lifelong dream for me,” Lawson said. “This is something I’ve worked towards since I was eight years old. I’m super excited to work alongside Max and learn from a World Champion.”
Christian Horner on Lawson’s Potential
Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner expressed his confidence in Lawson’s ability to take on the pressures of racing alongside Verstappen. Highlighting Lawson’s fearless attitude and impressive racecraft, Horner positioned the 22-year-old as a key part of Red Bull’s future.
“Liam’s performances … have demonstrated that he’s not only capable of delivering strong results but that he’s also a real racer,” Horner said. “Racing alongside Max … is a daunting task, but I’m sure Liam can rise to that challenge and deliver outstanding results.”
A Daunting Challenge: Partnering Max Verstappen
Lawson’s promotion comes with immense expectations. Joining Red Bull Racing means stepping into one of the most competitive seats in Formula 1, where the benchmark is Verstappen—a driver widely regarded as one of the greatest of all time. Lawson’s task will be to deliver consistent results, help Red Bull reclaim the Constructors’ Championship, and close the performance gap between Verstappen and the second car.
A Farewell from Visa Cash App Racing Bulls
VCARB, where Lawson honed his skills over the past year, praised the young driver’s growth and adaptability.
“Liam has truly impressed with his performances, showcasing resilience, adaptability, and growing confidence. While we’re sad to see him go, this is an exciting next step in his career and a thoroughly well-deserved promotion,” the team stated.
What This Means for Red Bull
Lawson’s promotion continues Red Bull’s tradition of promoting talent from within its Junior Programme, following in the footsteps of legends like Sebastian Vettel and Daniel Ricciardo. With Red Bull falling to third in the Constructors’ standings in 2024, the team is banking on Lawson’s fresh energy and determination to reignite its competitive edge.
Looking Ahead
As Lawson steps into his Red Bull seat for 2025, the spotlight will be on how he handles the pressures of competing at the pinnacle of motorsport. Will he rise to the challenge and thrive alongside Verstappen, or will the weight of expectations prove too much? One thing is certain: Liam Lawson’s journey is just beginning, and the world will be watching.