Liam Lawson will join four-time world champion Max Verstappen as his new team-mate at Red Bull Racing, taking over from Mexican F1 driver Sergio Perez.
Red Bull Racing has chosen Liam Lawson as Max Verstappen’s new Formula One team-mate following the exit of Sergio Perez after a challenging season. Perez’s departure was announced on Wednesday, creating an opportunity for the 22-year-old New Zealander to step up from the Red Bull Junior Bulls squad. Lawson’s F1 experience is limited, having only competed in 11 races. He made six appearances at the end of the 2024 season, replacing Daniel Ricciardo, and replaced the injured Australian in five games in 2023. Ricciardo made his F1 debut at the Dutch Grand Prix after he injured his hand in a practice crash. This year, Lawson scored points in his first race at the United States Grand Prix and finished in the top ten again in Brazil. Reports suggest he was informed of the promotion ahead of the season finale in Abu Dhabi.
Liam Lawson said: “It’s been a lifelong dream of mine to drive for Oracle Red Bull Racing, it’s something I’ve wanted and worked towards since I was eight years old. It’s been an amazing experience so far. It has been an incredible journey. I would like to express my sincere thanks to the entire VCARB team for their support, these past six games have played a huge role in preparing me for the next step.
Also read: F1: Sergio Perez leaves Red Bull Racing after challenging 2024 season
“I would also like to thank Christian, Helmut and the entire Red Bull family for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. I am very excited to work with Max and learn from the world champion and I have no doubt that I will learn from him Learn the ropes. I can’t wait to go!
Christian Horner said: “I am delighted to announce that Liam Lawson will be joining the team in 2025. Liam is at Visa Cash App Racing Bulls His performances during his two spells have shown that he is not only capable of achieving great results, but is also a real racer who is not afraid to mix with the best and stand out. His arrival continues the team’s promotion of the Red Bull Junior Program. With a long history, he follows in the footsteps of championship and race-winning drivers such as Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen.
Also read: F1: Max Verstappen officially crowned 2024 world champion after penalty in Rwanda
“There’s no doubt that racing with Max, a four-time champion and undoubtedly one of the greatest drivers in F1 history, is a difficult task, but I’m confident Liam will be able to rise to the challenge and bring something to the table for us going forward. ‘A great year of results.
Red Bull are looking to replace Liam Lawson, with rising Formula 2 star Isaac Hajjar emerging as a top contender.
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