Liam Lawson is about to tread on thin ice with the Red Bull team, driving the RB20 at Silverstone, in what could prove to be a decisive moment for both him and the team’s driver line-up, as Red Bull’s strategic future hangs in the balance.
As Red Bull utilizes its second filming day this year at Silverstone, the spotlight is on reserve driver Liam Lawson, who gets the chance to drive the RB20 for 200 kilometers. Speculations are swirling about possible changes in the Red Bull and AlphaTauri (now VCARB) driver line-ups, making this test much more significant than a simple promotional event.
Currently, Formula 1 regulations allow limited testing of current F1 cars, typically through official tests and Pirelli’s tire testing program. However, filming days provide an opportunity for teams to gather promotional content, albeit under controlled conditions, using Pirelli’s specially supplied ‘Academy’ tires. Lawson, therefore, has a unique chance with 34 laps on the full Grand Prix circuit, an outing that could have significant implications for his future as well as others’ within the Red Bull ecosystem.
The focus is on how Lawson handles the pressure and performs during this test, as Red Bull can gauge his pace despite the less relevant tire compounds. This opportunity follows Lawson’s prior experiences, including FP1 outings and substituting for the injured Daniel Ricciardo. It draws parallels to Ricciardo’s own significant test at Silverstone, which led to critical decisions in Red Bull’s line-up, as Ricciardo replaced Nyck de Vries last year.
Red Bull’s situation is complicated by Sergio Perez’s struggles. His performance issues have become apparent, especially during the recent British Grand Prix, contributing to Red Bull losing ground in the Constructors’ Championship. As Red Bull evaluates its driver options, Christian Horner has acknowledged that Perez is under pressure to meet performance clauses, including staying within 100 points of Verstappen by the season’s summer break.
The timing of Lawson’s test coincides with Perez’s precarious standing, and there’s a real possibility of reshuffling within the team’s ranks. With Ricciardo showing improved form and potential contract clauses allowing changes, Red Bull is in a position to make bold moves. Lawson’s potential promotion hinges not only on this test but also on any significant shifts within Red Bull’s existing driver contracts.
Reports suggest that Red Bull’s decision will take into account not just Lawson’s performance at Silverstone but also strategic alignments for 2025. With Lawson rumored to be negotiating with Audi for 2025, Red Bull might fast-track a decision to secure his talents. The test, hence, becomes crucial not only for immediate alignments but also for Red Bull’s long-term planning.
Red Bull’s test at Silverstone could be a turning point for the team’s driver strategy. While officially a promotional event, the stakes are undoubtedly high for Lawson, Perez, and Ricciardo. How Lawson performs might shape not only his future within F1 but also influence Red Bull’s competitive dynamics in the Constructors’ battle, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the outcome.
