Red Bull Racing is poised for significant changes in 2025, with Sergio Perez’s likely exit leaving a coveted seat open. While Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson are in contention, the young Kiwi driver appears to have the upper hand. Here’s why Liam Lawson seems destined for Red Bull’s top team.
Perez’s Decline Leaves a Void
Sergio Perez’s struggles in the 2024 season have been a critical factor in Red Bull’s underwhelming performance. His inability to consistently support Max Verstappen has not only jeopardized their Constructors’ Championship standings but has also caused financial repercussions for the team.
Despite a two-year contract extension aimed at boosting his confidence, Perez’s form has spiraled downward. Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko candidly stated, “We need two drivers who finish in the points,” highlighting the team’s dissatisfaction with Perez’s performance.
With Perez’s departure after the Abu Dhabi GP all but confirmed, Red Bull must identify a driver capable of both supporting Verstappen and ensuring the team’s long-term success.
Liam Lawson: The Rising Star
Liam Lawson’s brief but impactful stint as a substitute driver in 2023 and 2024 has cemented his reputation as a strong contender for a Red Bull Racing seat. His fiery determination, adaptability, and mental fortitude align closely with Red Bull’s philosophy.
Lawson’s willingness to accept responsibility for mistakes, such as his public apology to Valtteri Bottas after a collision, showcases his maturity under pressure. These traits are critical for a driver stepping into the intense environment of a top-tier F1 team.
Why Lawson Outshines Tsunoda
Consistency and Potential
Yuki Tsunoda has shown flashes of brilliance, contributing significantly to VCARB’s 2024 points tally. However, his occasional hot-headedness and lack of consistency in high-pressure situations raise concerns.
Lawson, on the other hand, has demonstrated a higher performance ceiling despite his limited experience. His strong collaboration with Red Bull over the past six years also positions him as a long-term investment for the team.
Team Compatibility
Tsunoda’s ties with Honda may complicate Red Bull’s plans, particularly as the partnership between the two organizations winds down. Lawson, however, is deeply integrated into Red Bull’s ecosystem and is more likely to play a supportive role for Verstappen while gaining valuable experience.
Succession Planning
With Max Verstappen hinting at a potential early retirement or departure, Red Bull needs a successor who can lead the team in the future. While Tsunoda could offer short-term gains, Lawson’s adaptability and star quality make him a more viable long-term option.
Strategic Considerations for Red Bull
Promoting Lawson to the senior team could have ripple effects on Red Bull’s driver lineup. Should Tsunoda feel overlooked, he may seek opportunities elsewhere, potentially leaving VCARB without its lead driver. In that case, young talents like Isack Hadjar or Arvid Lindblad could step up to fill the gap.
Hadjar, a standout in Formula 2, is already positioned for a VCARB seat in 2025, while Lindblad is showing promise as he transitions into F2. Red Bull’s driver development program ensures a steady pipeline of talent, but their priority remains clear: securing the best pairing for the main team.
Conclusion
Liam Lawson’s rapid rise, mental resilience, and alignment with Red Bull’s long-term vision make him the logical choice for a 2025 promotion. While Tsunoda’s experience and recent performance cannot be ignored, Lawson’s potential to lead the team into a Verstappen-less future gives him a decisive edge.
As Red Bull reshapes its lineup for the upcoming seasons, all eyes will be on Abu Dhabi to see how this pivotal decision unfolds.
