Liam Lawson in do or die situation with Red Bull promotion
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Liam Lawson and Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)
Red Bull has changed its driver lineup for the first time since 2021. 22-year-old Liam Lawson will replace Sergio Perez at Milton Keynes for next season. This move is an opportunity for Lawson while also being a major gamble.
Liam Lawson made his F1 debut in 2023 to fill in for an injured Daniel Ricciardo. The Kiwi driver then replaced the Australian driver for the latter half of this season. The 22-year-old seemingly convinced Red Bull that he was ready to race at the front of the grid.
Now, Lawson will partner Max Verstappen, undoubtedly the toughest teammate in his career. Things could quickly go downhill for the 22-year-old if he fails to play his cards right at Milton Keynes from day 1 of the 2025 season.
Liam Lawson can’t take risks against Max Verstappen
Max Verstappen has annihilated his teammates since 2019. Be it Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, or Sergio Perez, none have been able to match the four-time world champion. Now, Liam Lawson faces this uphill battle, that too in his first-ever full F1 season.
The 22-year-old is ambitious, who doesn’t want to be forced to play second fiddle. Red Bull would’ve recognized that having Lawson as Verstappen’s teammate was not the same as Checo. Nevertheless, the Austrian team would have informed the Kiwi driver regarding his role.
Red Bull does not want a repeat of 2024, when its two drivers are separated by massive deficit of 280 points. As such, Liam Lawson would be told to get as many points at possible. Albeit not at the cost of Max Verstappen.
If Lawson becomes reckless during the season, Red Bull could decide to swap in someone like Yuki Tsunoda. Liam Lawson will even have to obey any commands made by the pit wall if he wants to stay in the long run.
The Kiwi driver is ready for the biggest move in his career. However, Liam Lawson must live up to the team’s targets and ensure he shares a peaceful relationship with Verstappen. As Red Bull will not think twice before changing its mind over his future.
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Armaan Agarwal
(2310 Articles Published)