Liam Lawson has secured a coveted Oracle Red Bull Racing seat for the 2025 FIA Formula One World Championship, partnering with four-time world champion Max Verstappen. The 22-year-old New Zealander’s remarkable journey through the Red Bull Junior Programme and his promising performances in Formula One have culminated in this dream opportunity.
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A Rising Star with a Strong Foundation
Hailing from New Zealand, Lawson joined the Red Bull Junior Programme in 2019 and quickly established himself as a talent to watch. His junior formula successes included an impressive second-place finish in the 2021 DTM series, driving for Red Bull AF Corse.
Formula One Debut and Early Success
Lawson made his Formula One debut with Scuderia AlphaTauri at the 2023 Dutch Grand Prix, where he showcased his potential. In just his second race at the Singapore GP, he scored his first championship points, going on to complete five races that season.
2024: Gaining Experience and Delivering Results
Serving as a Reserve Driver for both Oracle Red Bull Racing and Scuderia AlphaTauri in 2024, Lawson continued to hone his skills. Returning to Visa Cash App Racing Bulls mid-season, he delivered solid performances, including points-scoring finishes at the United States Grand Prix and Singapore Grand Prix, where he placed ninth on both occasions.
Lawson wrapped up the 2024 season alongside teammate Yuki Tsunoda at Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, leaving a strong impression and earning his promotion to Oracle Red Bull Racing.
Replacing a Seasoned Veteran
Lawson steps into the seat previously held by Mexican driver Sergio Pérez. Pérez played a pivotal role in Oracle Red Bull Racing’s success, helping secure the 2021 FIA Formula One World Championship runner-up position and contributing to consecutive Constructors’ titles in 2022 and 2023. Pérez’s achievements included a second-place finish in the 2023 drivers’ standings and third in 2022, solidifying his legacy with the team.
A Dream Realized
(FILE PHOTO) F1 Driver Liam Lawson Joins Red Bull SAO PAULO, BRAZIL – OCTOBER 31: Yuki Tsunoda of Japan and Visa Cash App RB and Liam Lawson of New Zealand and Visa Cash App RB look on in the Paddock during previews ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Brazil at Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace on October 31, 2024 in Sao Paulo, Brazil. (Photo by Rudy Carezzevoli/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool
Reflecting on his promotion, Lawson said:
“To be announced as an Oracle Red Bull Racing driver is a lifelong dream for me. This is something I’ve wanted and worked towards since I was eight years old. The journey has been incredible so far, and I want to extend a massive thank you to the whole team at Visa Cash App Racing Bulls for their support. The last six races have been crucial in my preparation for this next step. I’m also immensely grateful to Christian (Horner), Helmut (Marko), and the entire Red Bull family for believing in me. I’m super excited to work alongside Max and learn from a four-time world champion. I can’t wait to get started!”
Horner’s Confidence in Lawson
Oracle Red Bull Racing Team Principal and CEO Christian Horner expressed his enthusiasm about Lawson’s promotion:
“I’m delighted to announce Liam Lawson as part of our team for 2025. During his stints with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, Liam’s performances have shown he’s not just a skilled driver but a true racer who thrives under pressure. His promotion continues our tradition of fostering talent through the Red Bull Junior Programme, following in the footsteps of greats like Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen. Racing alongside Max will undoubtedly be a challenge, but I’m confident Liam has the resilience and determination to rise to the occasion and deliver exceptional results next season.”
ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – DECEMBER 08: Liam Lawson of New Zealand and Visa Cash App RB talks to Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi at Yas Marina Circuit on December 08, 2024 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool
Looking Ahead
With a proven track record of developing championship-calibre drivers, Oracle Red Bull Racing’s decision to elevate Lawson underscores their commitment to nurturing talent. Fans eagerly await the 2025 season, where Lawson will aim to make his mark alongside one of Formula One’s all-time greats.
