Liam Lawson fulfills ‘lifelong dream’ by replacing Sergio Pérez at Red Bull | Formula 1

On By Littum

New Zealander Liam Lawson has been confirmed as Sergio Pérez’s replacement at Red Bull for next season. It was announced on Wednesday that the Mexican driver had lost his seat after four years as Max Verstappen’s teammate following a disappointing year.

Lawson, who joined the Red Bull Junior Program in 2019, steps in after 11 races for the RB team. The 22-year-old said: “To be announced as an Oracle Red Bull Racing driver is a lifelong dream of mine. It’s something I’ve wanted and worked towards since I was eight years old.

“It’s been an incredible journey so far. I’d like to say a big thank you to the whole team at VCARB (RB) for their support, the last six races have played a huge part in my preparation for this next step. I’m super excited to work with Max and learn from a world champion. I have no doubt that I will learn from his expertise. I can’t wait to get going.”

Lawson made his F1 debut at the 2023 Dutch Grand Prix in place of the injured Daniel Ricciardo and went on to compete in five races, scoring his first points at Texas. Lawson then replaced Ricciardo on a permanent basis for the final six races of the 2024 season and impressed enough to make the jump to Red Bull.

Backing Lawson to shine, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner said: “Liam’s performances over his two stints with the Visa Cash App Racing Bulls have shown that he is not only capable of delivering strong results, but that he is a true racer, not afraid to mix it with the best and come out on top.

“His arrival continues the team’s long history of promoting from the Red Bull Junior program and he follows in the footsteps of championship and race winning drivers such as Sebastian Vettel and, of course, Max Verstappen.

“There is no doubt that it is a daunting task to drive alongside Max, a four-time champion and undoubtedly one of the greatest drivers ever seen in F1, but I am confident that Liam can rise to the challenge and deliver some excellent results for us next year.”