Liam Lawson, the young talent from New Zealand, is turning heads in Formula One with his quest for a full-time seat in 2025. Currently a reserve driver for Red Bull, Lawson’s impressive stints last year have only fuelled his ambitions further.
Lawson first made a splash during the 2023 Dutch Grand Prix when Daniel Ricciardo injured his hand during free practice. Seizing the opportunity, Lawson stepped in with remarkable skill and poise. In just five Grand Prix appearances, he showcased his potential and earned accolades from both fans and critics.
His ability to adapt quickly and compete at a high level did not go unnoticed. Despite his youth and relative inexperience, Lawson proved that he could handle the pressure and perform on the big stage. With the 2025 F1 campaign fast approaching, Lawson is actively seeking a full-time drive. Though currently in a prime position as a Red Bull reserve driver, he is not content to wait indefinitely.
Red Bull, however, seems satisfied with their current line-up of Ricciardo and Yuki Tsunoda, creating uncertainty for Lawson. Speaking to Talksport, Lawson laid bare his ambitious plans. ‘I have no idea – everything is changing at the moment, there are a lot of riders moving around,’ he explained. ‘At the moment I don’t really know where I fit in, or if I fit in at all. It’s something I’m working towards every day at the moment.’
Lawson has made it clear that he wants a full-time role, even if it means leaving Red Bull. He emphasized that he doesn’t want to be in F1 just because someone is injured. ‘I want to be in F1 because a team wants me to be there full-time,’ he said. His dedication and ambition show that he is ready to explore options outside Red Bull if necessary.
Lawson’s journey to this point has been impressive. His early years in motorsport saw him excel in various junior categories, catching the attention of Red Bull. His performances in the FIA Formula 3 and Formula 2 championships led to his current role as a reserve driver.
The 2023 Dutch Grand Prix was a turning point. With minimal preparation time, Lawson delivered performances that belied his lack of top-level experience. Over the course of five races, he impressed with his composure, racing ability, and speed, holding his own against experienced competitors.
Looking ahead, Lawson’s future depends on the decisions of Red Bull and other teams. With several unconfirmed seats for the 2025 F1 season, there is potential for movement and opportunity. As the 2025 F1 season approaches, Lawson’s ultimatum to Red Bull underlines his readiness to seize any opportunity and reaffirms his commitment to becoming a full-time Formula One driver.
Lawson’s path has been marked by strong performances and unwavering ambition. His ultimatum to Red Bull signals just how ready he is to take the next step in his Formula One career. As the 2025 season looms large, all eyes will be on this young driver to see where he lands.
