Liam Lawson could see a significant shift in his racing career as Red Bull’s decision looms over his future role within the team.
- Lawson remains on standby for the final part of the season, while Red Bull has yet to confirm his 2025 plans.
- Ricciardo’s seat, currently the only one unconfirmed at Red Bull, adds to the speculation surrounding team dynamics.
- Red Bull’s Helmut Marko hints at a strategic move that might see Lawson replace Ricciardo next season.
- Christian Horner emphasizes performance as the key for Ricciardo to secure his position against eager contenders like Lawson.
Liam Lawson, who impressed fans and officials alike during his substitute stint for an injured Daniel Ricciardo last season, is back behind the wheel for the final six races this season. Despite his promising performances, Red Bull has not yet exercised their option for Lawson, leaving his future with the team in limbo as the summer break approaches.
Presently, Lawson serves as a reserve driver for both Red Bull and their sister team, RB. His aspirations to secure a spot on the F1 2025 grid are widely known, but his path is uncertain. Lawson candidly admitted that if a drive within Red Bull isn’t available next season, he could end up “anywhere” if an opportunity arises, though his preference is to remain within the Red Bull family.
The intrigue thickens as Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s motorsport advisor, revealed a clause in Lawson’s contract that allows other teams to sign him if Red Bull doesn’t place him on the grid. This clause becomes more pertinent with Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez confirmed in the senior seats for next season, leaving Ricciardo’s current seat at RB effectively the only one uncontracted beyond the season’s end.
Marko indicated that the shareholders see RB as a junior team, compelling them to promote young talent. He remarked, “The goal was that [Ricciardo] would be considered for Red Bull Racing with exceptional performances. That seat now belongs to Sergio Perez, so that plan is no longer valid. We will have to put a young driver in there soon. That would be Liam Lawson.”
On the flip side, Christian Horner highlighted that Ricciardo controls his destiny, stating in April that the decision largely rests with the Australian’s performance. “It’s pretty much in Daniel’s hands. He needs to show the kind of head-turning form to make not only ourselves but potentially to make others take notice,” Horner noted. Lawson, described as “champing at the bit,” remains an option waiting in the wings – a reminder that talent is ready and waiting, though Horner assures no decisions are predetermined.
The unfolding scenario at Red Bull suggests a potential reshuffle, as performance and timing will dictate the drivers’ futures.
