It’s official – Liam Lawson is replacing Sergio Perez at Red Bull Racing in 2025. But, why has the former World Constructor’s Champions picked the New Zealander over the more experienced Yuki Tsunoda? Join Supercars.com.GH as we investigate.
Lawson’s impressive performances in the limited opportunities he was given have been crucial in making this decision. Despite facing several challenges such as engine penalties and limited time for preparation, he consistently demonstrated a strong race pace and an ability to adapt quickly. His debut race in 2024 at the United States Grand Prix, where he climbed from the back of the grid to ninth place, showcased his resilience and determination.
Furthermore, Lawson has displayed maturity beyond his years. His ability to handle pressure and navigate challenging situations, like his on-track battles with Sergio Perez in Mexico has impressed the Red Bull hierarchy. While he showed his frustration at times, Lawson also demonstrated self-awareness and a willingness to learn from his mistakes, which is admirable.
While Tsunoda has shown flashes of brilliance since his debut in 2021, his temperamental tendencies have been a concern for Red Bull. Incidents like his aggressive behavior towards Daniel Ricciardo in Bahrain highlight a potential for inconsistency and a lack of complete control under pressure.
Red Bull’s long-term vision also likely played a significant role in their decision. They are looking for a driver who can not only partner with Verstappen but also potentially succeed him as the face of the team. Lawson’s raw talent, combined with his mental fortitude and coachability, makes him an ideal candidate for this role.
Ultimately, Red Bull’s choice shows their belief in Lawson’s potential. While Tsunoda has proven his capabilities in F1, the team believes that Lawson’s potential for growth is greater. With a full season of preparation and the support of the Red Bull Racing team, Lawson has the opportunity to become a future star of the sport, so make sure to stay with Supercars.com.GH to see how his career progresses in 2025.