Liam Lawson’s meteoric rise in Formula 1 has hit a significant speed bump. The young driver, once touted for greatness, finds himself on the receiving end of harsh criticism and a demotion from the prestigious Red Bull Racing team after just two races into the 2025 season.
Liam Lawson, a name that quickly rose to prominence in the world of Formula 1, recently experienced a dramatic shift in his career trajectory. After being chosen to fill the seat vacated by Sergio Perez, Lawson’s time with Red Bull was unexpectedly cut short. Despite high hopes, his entry into the 2025 season was marked by disappointing performances, culminating in an abrupt drop from the team. Jacques Villeneuve, the 1997 World Champion, didn’t hold back in his assessment of the situation. He noted that Lawson’s confident demeanor may have contributed to his downfall. According to Villeneuve, Lawson’s self-promotion as an exceptional talent clashed with the harsh reality of Formula 1, where results are paramount. Villeneuve remarked, ‘You have to bear in mind that he came into F1 very arrogant. He came into F1 last year saying how amazing he would be and he had an attitude. When the results don’t come, it makes everybody react even stronger.’
Lawson’s transition from a promising junior driver to a full-time competitor in one of the top-tier teams of F1 was not a smooth one. His sole experience as a full-time driver had been limited, primarily serving as a stand-in for Daniel Ricciardo during two separate injuries in 2023 and later in 2024 after Ricciardo’s dismissal. These six races served as Lawson’s audition for his role at Red Bull, where he did not shy away from controversy. His on-track antics included a memorable encounter with veteran drivers like Fernando Alonso, as well as an infamous gesture towards Sergio Perez during the Mexican Grand Prix. For Villeneuve, Lawson’s bold approach was a double-edged sword that eventually led to his departure from Red Bull.
Red Bull’s swift decision to demote Lawson after just two races might have been unexpected, even for Villeneuve. He suggested that the team might have been more lenient, possibly giving Lawson a few more races back in Europe to prove his worth. However, the competitive nature of Red Bull, known for demanding immediate results, ultimately influenced the decision. Lawson’s disappointing results, marked by zero points and two consecutive Q1 exits, likely prompted Red Bull to make this tough call. Villeneuve acknowledged the risks involved with joining a top-performing team like Red Bull, stating, ‘When you start with Red Bull you have to be on it right away, and that’s the price to pay for being put in the best team.’
As Lawson returns to the Racing Bulls junior team, his journey in F1 is far from over. The Kiwi driver remains optimistic, expressing gratitude and determination to make the most of his fresh start in a familiar environment. Lawson’s upcoming races, beginning at the Suzuka Circuit — a track he’s well-acquainted with — offer him a chance to rebuild his reputation. His brief stint with Red Bull Racing, although challenging, serves as a critical learning experience in the young driver’s career.
Liam Lawson’s abrupt demotion from Red Bull Racing serves as a reminder of the harsh realities of Formula 1. While his confidence and ambition were evident, the pressure to deliver immediate results in a top-tier team proved too much, too soon. As he returns to Racing Bulls, Lawson has an opportunity to regroup and refocus on his goals, with the hope of bouncing back stronger in the competitive world of F1.
