The Exciting ‘Opportunity’ of Being Max Verstappen’s Red Bull Team-mate
Liam Lawson, the Kiwi driver who is likely to join Red Bull Racing alongside Max Verstappen in F1 2025, has shared what he believes is the most exciting aspect of being Max’s team-mate, should the opportunity arise.
The Red Bull Racing team is currently in discussions with Sergio Perez regarding his future. Perez may transition into a driver ambassadorship role if an agreement is reached. This would open up a seat for a potential new driver, and Lawson is seen as the favorite to take that spot, having spent this season as a reserve driver for both Red Bull teams.
Liam Lawson: Max Verstappen’s Data Access Is What’s Exciting
Although Lawson is less experienced than Yuki Tsunoda, having completed just 11 races in Formula 1, he has been an important part of the Red Bull program, patiently waiting for an opportunity. This season, he had a six-race audition in Daniel Ricciardo’s place.
If Lawson were to step into the role of Verstappen’s team-mate, it would be a rapid ascension for the New Zealand driver—less than half a season of experience before being thrust into the high-pressure role at Red Bull Racing. In such a dynamic, drivers like Alex Albon and Pierre Gasly struggled alongside Verstappen, but Lawson remains confident he can handle the challenge.
Lawson told PlanetF1: “I believe, for anybody to go up against Max, you have to be realistic and know that he’s the fastest guy on the grid right now, and that you’re not gonna be out-qualifying the guy by half a second. It’s more the opportunity that’s there to learn from the best.”
Unfettered Access to Max Verstappen’s Data
One key aspect that Lawson finds exciting is the unfettered access to Verstappen’s data, something he believes would be invaluable to his development as a driver. Lawson explained:
“For me as a driver, to be able to go in against the guy who’s won four world championships and is well seasoned… He’s been in that car for a long time, and in terms of how to drive it, it’s all right there on paper.”
This insight into Verstappen’s approach to car setup and driving style is something Lawson eagerly anticipates, seeing it as an opportunity to elevate his performance to the next level.
Lawson’s Inner Belief and Unshakeable Confidence
Lawson is often described as unshakeable in his confidence, despite his limited Formula 1 experience. He attributes this inner belief to something he feels he was born with, explaining:
“Whether you’re fighting in the midfield or at the front of the field, to be perfectly honest, it’s actually no different… the performance, as a driver, we try to achieve in a race weekend is the best possible performance that we can do.”
His steady focus on maximizing performance regardless of position in the standings highlights Lawson’s calm and determined mindset, vital for his transition to a Red Bull seat.
Feedback and Long-Term Goals
Over the years, Lawson has received realistic feedback from both his VCARB and Red Bull bosses, including Laurent Mekies, Peter Bayer, and Christian Horner. Lawson notes that the feedback he receives is invaluable for his growth:
“If I don’t do a good job, they’re very accurate on explaining to me things I could do better… I’m here to learn as well.”
Having been part of the Red Bull Driver Program for six years, Lawson has built a solid relationship with the team, and his consistent dedication to improvement is evident in his approach to Formula 1.
A Strong Bond with Red Bull
Lawson’s rapport with the team is also clear. As he walks through the VCARB hospitality unit, he is seen engaging with fellow employees, sharing laughter and positive energy. His relationship with the team has grown over the past 18 months, as he has remained patient, even when his future with the team was uncertain.
Has F1 Met Lawson’s Expectations?
Despite the rapid pace of his rise, Lawson feels well-prepared for the challenge, given his time as a reserve driver. He states:
“I think I had a pretty clear picture. But when you’re dealing with it as a driver, maybe it’s slightly different. But honestly, I would say it’s about what I expected.”
What’s Next for Lawson?
As of now, Lawson’s future is still uncertain. However, he remains fully focused on Formula 1, with no contingency plan for a future outside of the sport.
“I’ve always been focused on Formula 1 and never really had any backup plans.”
For now, all eyes are on whether Lawson will make the leap into the Red Bull Racing team in 2025, where he could face the ultimate challenge of being Max Verstappen’s team-mate.
