After months of speculation regarding Red Bull Racing’s second seat, the team has finally confirmed that Liam Lawson will join Max Verstappen for the 2025 season, replacing Sergio Perez after a difficult year. Lawson’s path to F1 has been unconventional but deeply rewarding. The 22-year-old New Zealander has only competed in 11 Grands Prix, but his performances have showcased immense potential. In 2023, Lawson stepped in for the injured Daniel Ricciardo, impressing with a P9 finish at the Singapore Grand Prix in just his third race.
In 2024, Lawson secured a permanent seat, replacing Ricciardo after the Singapore GP. His consistent displays, including scoring points in his debut race at the United States Grand Prix, solidified his place as Red Bull’s preferred driver for 2025. This decision came over teammate Yuki Tsunoda, who will remain with VCARB. Christian Horner and Red Bull recognized Lawson’s talent and determination, offering him the opportunity to race alongside Verstappen in 2025.
Liam Lawson has expressed immense gratitude toward his family, particularly his parents, for their unwavering support throughout his journey. Reflecting on his early karting days, Lawson recalled how his father invested in a better engine after he consistently finished last, which marked a turning point in his racing career. He shared how his parents sacrificed everything, including not owning a house, to help him pursue his dreams. Lawson also fondly recalled how his sister contributed to his F1 journey by lending him her old car for manual driving practice, despite its age and condition.
Despite coming from a family with limited resources, Lawson’s parents instilled in him the belief that anything is possible with determination and hard work—a philosophy that helped him reach the pinacle of motorsport.
