Importance Score: 25 / 100 🔵
Formula 1: Liam Lawson Addresses Red Bull Racing Driver Change
Following a swift change within the ranks of Red Bull Racing, Formula 1 driver Liam Lawson has publicly spoken out after being replaced in the team’s lineup. The New Zealander’s brief stint with the premier team concluded after just two races, marking a stark turn of events for the young talent.
Lawson’s Reaction to Red Bull Departure
Lawson, 23, has become the latest driver to experience the abrupt nature of Red Bull‘s driver program, facing demotion to the feeder team, Racing Bulls. This decision, which reportedly surprised even Max Verstappen according to sources within Red Bull, continues the team’s trend of rapid driver changes for the second seat.
In an emotional message shared on Instagram, Lawson conveyed his disappointment at being removed from the Red Bull Racing seat and articulated the profound significance of representing the team.
‘Being a Red Bull Racing driver has been my ambition since childhood; it’s what I’ve dedicated my entire career towards,’ he stated. ‘This is a challenging period, and I am thankful for every experience that has led me to this point. To everyone who has supported me, your encouragement means everything.’
‘Thank you to Visa Cash App Racing Bulls for the kind reception. I am enthusiastic and prepared to work at one of my preferred locations.’
Liam Lawson’s Instagram post reflecting on a ‘tough’ time after Red Bull driver change.
Childhood Dream: Lawson shared an image from a school project illustrating his Formula One aspirations.
Early Aspirations
Lawson’s social media post included photos reflecting his lifelong ambition. One image was of a young Lawson alongside a school project detailing his Formula 1 dream. Another photograph showcased a drawing from his youth, clearly stating ‘F1 driver’ as his desired profession.
Shortest Red Bull Stint in F1 History
Lawson’s time in a Red Bull seat is notably brief, arguably the shortest for a driver in Formula One history, excluding instances of illness or injury-related absences. His two-race tenure surpasses that of Yuji Ide, who competed in four races for Super Aguri in 2006.
Despite the setback, Racing Bulls remains a competitive team, offering Lawson the opportunity to compete for points alongside Isack Hadjar.
Lawson’s childhood drawing highlighting his lifelong dream to become an F1 driver.
Helmut Marko described hiring Lawson initially as a ‘mistake’.
Hannah St John, Lawson’s girlfriend, expressed support on social media following his Red Bull exit.
Helmut Marko’s Critical Assessment
However, Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko offered a less sympathetic assessment of Lawson’s performance, labeling the initial decision to promote him as a ‘mistake’.
‘In Australia, a turbo failure in the third practice session impacted him, costing him valuable track time. We require a robust second driver, especially for team strategy,’ Marko stated to OE24.
‘Yuki [Tsunoda] exhibited inconsistency. Consequently, we collectively opted for Lawson. However, under increasing pressure, he struggled to perform from the outset in Australia. He then entered a negative spiral, akin to a boxer getting knocked down – recovery becomes exceedingly difficult. In hindsight, it was an error.’
Support from Lawson’s Girlfriend
Hannah St John, Lawson’s girlfriend, also responded to his dismissal via Instagram, sharing a black and white image of them holding hands, accompanied by a heart emoji, demonstrating her support during this period.
Red Bull Statement on Driver Rotation
A statement from Red Bull elaborated on the driver change: ‘Following a challenging start to the season for Liam Lawson, Red Bull has decided that commencing from the 2025 Japan GP, Yuki Tsunoda will drive for Red Bull, with Liam moving to Racing Bulls.’
Yuki Tsunoda’s promotion to Red Bull from Racing Bulls comes after Lawson’s brief two-race stint.
‘Red Bull‘s unique position with four seats in F1 allows for strategic driver rotation. This decision will see Yuki partner with current four-time world champion Max Verstappen.’
Team Principal’s Perspective
Christian Horner commented, ‘Observing Liam’s difficulties with the RB21 in the initial races led to a collective decision for an immediate change. Our 2025 objectives are to retain both the world drivers’ and constructors’ championships, making this a purely sporting decision.’
‘We acknowledge the substantial development needed for the RB21, and Yuki’s experience will be invaluable in enhancing the car’s performance.’