## Lawson to Partner verstappen at Red Bull in 2025

MILTON KEYNES – Red Bull Racing has announced a seismic shift in its driver lineup, confirming that Liam Lawson will join Max Verstappen for the 2025 Formula 1 season. The 22-year-old New Zealander steps into the seat previously held by Sergio Pérez, marking a important moment for the Red Bull driver progress programme.

### A Dream Realized

“this is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream,” Lawson stated, reflecting on his journey as the age of eight. His promotion to the senior team follows a period as Red Bull’s reserve driver since 2022, coupled with eleven starts for the Racing Bulls, formerly AlphaTauri. Lawson’s talent shone brightly, with a notable ninth-place finish underscoring his potential.

Welcome to the Team, @LiamLawson30 🇳🇿 Stepping up to Oracle Red Bull Racing for 2025

— Oracle Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) December 19, 2024

### Horner’s Perspective

Red Bull boss Christian Horner emphasized Lawson’s racing acumen and fighting spirit. “He showed that he knows how to drive for results, but that he is also a racer and is not afraid of fighting with the best,” Horner noted. He also highlighted the team’s commitment to nurturing talent, following in the footsteps of Sebastian Vettel and Verstappen.

### Pérez’s Departure

Pérez’s exit concludes a four-year stint with Red Bull, a period highlighted by five grand Prix victories and a runner-up finish in the World championship last year. Despite signing a contract extension until 2026 in June, a string of disappointing results led to his early departure.

“Welcome to Red Bull Racing”

Click below to watch Liam’s first interview for Oracle Red Bull Racing

— Oracle Red Bull racing (@redbullracing) December 19, 2024

### performance Dip

While Pérez began the season strongly with three second-place finishes and one third-place result in the initial five races, his performance waned thereafter, failing to secure another podium. He ultimately finished eighth in the World championship, his lowest ranking during his time with Red Bull, while Verstappen secured his fourth consecutive title.

Exclusive Interview: Sports Fanatic Mark Johnson Debates red Bull’s Driver Shake-Up – Insights & Controversies!

Introduction

Today, we’re diving deep into the recent bombshell dropped by Red Bull Racing: Liam Lawson replacing Sergio Pérez alongside Max Verstappen for the 2025 Formula 1 season. To help us dissect this move,its implications,and potential controversies,we’re joined by mark Johnson,a die-hard Formula 1 enthusiast who hasn’t missed a race since Schumacher’s reign. Mark’s encyclopedic knowledge of the sport,combined with his keen analytical abilities,makes him the perfect guest to navigate this complex topic. Mark, welcome!

Moderator: Mark, thanks for joining us. This proclamation has certainly stirred the pot. What were your immediate reactions to Red Bull opting for Lawson over Pérez for 2025? Were you surprised?

Mark Johnson: Thanks for having me! Honestly, I was expecting some kind of change. Pérez’s performance this season has been… underwhelming,to put it mildly. But swapping him out this early, especially after that contract extension, that’s a cold move, even by red Bull standards. I wasn’t wholly surprised Lawson got the nod though. He’s been impressive in his limited outings, and Red Bull has always been about promoting from within.

Moderator: Let’s drill down on Pérez. He did start the season relatively strong, racking up several podium finishes. Where do you think things started to unravel for him?

Mark Johnson: That’s the confusing part! The first few races,he looked like he might actually challenge Verstappen. But then… it was like a switch flipped. He suddenly couldn’t hook up a decent qualifying lap, his race pace evaporated, and he was making uncharacteristic errors.I think the pressure of being Verstappen’s teammate, knowing he’s essentially driving for second best, finally got to him. Remember what happened to Gasly and Albon? It’s a mental game as much as a physical one.

Moderator: Absolutely. The psychological aspect is often overlooked. Now, Christian Horner emphasized Lawson’s racing acumen and fighting spirit. Do you see Lawson as a true threat to Verstappen, or more of a reliable number two driver?

Mark Johnson: That’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? I highly doubt Lawson will be challenging Verstappen for the championship next year. Verstappen is on another level right now. But, and this is a big but, Lawson has the potential to be a genuine contender in the future. He’s young, hungry, and doesn’t seem easily intimidated. Remember his performance at Zandvoort last year, stepping in at the last minute and promptly putting in competitive times? That shows tremendous mental fortitude. However, fighting for points and fighting for wins are two different animals.

Moderator: That zandvoort race was definitely a standout moment. You mentioned the pressure of being Verstappen’s teammate. Do you think Lawson will be able to handle that pressure better than Pérez, Gasly, or Albon?

Mark Johnson: That’s where it gets tricky. None of us truly know how someone will react until they’re in that hot seat. However, Lawson seems to possess a quiet confidence that the others lacked. he’s not arrogant, but he believes in his abilities. That self-belief is crucial. Plus, the Racing Bulls experience will have prepared him to some extent. He’s already familiar with the Red Bull system and the immense pressure that comes with it; even within the “sister” squad . He’s seen this pressure firsthand and knows what he’s getting himself into.

Moderator: Let’s talk about the implications for Pérez. Where do you see him landing after this? Does he still have a future in Formula 1?

Mark Johnson: It’s sad to see Pérez go out like this with only a year with the new contract being in place. He’s still a talented driver, and I think he coudl be an asset to another team. However, I doubt he’ll find a drive at a top team. Maybe a midfield team like Aston Martin or even a return to Sauber/Audi if they’re looking for an experienced driver to help them develop thier car. Honestly, with someone like andrea Antonelli coming knocking on the doors I have my doubts. It depends on how willing he is to take a step down and rebuild his reputation. If he’s willing to take a non top team seat, and show his skills on the track, he might be a solid partner for a number one driver.

Moderator: You’ve raised an captivating point about Sauber/Audi. Moving on, Christian Horner drew parallels between Lawson’s promotion and the advancement of Sebastian Vettel and Verstappen themselves. Do you think Lawson has the potential to reach that level of success?

Mark Johnson: That’s a very high bar to set. Vettel and Verstappen are generational talents.Lawson has potential, but let’s not get ahead of ourselves.He needs time to develop, learn the car, and build a rapport with the team. He needs to prove he can consistently deliver results under immense pressure. From my personal perspective, provided that he can be in the top 5, it will take the pressure of him for a while and let the new driver settle into the team habitat. Comparing him to Vettel and Verstappen at this stage is premature.

Moderator: Let’s address the elephant in the room: Red Bull’s driver development program. They’ve churned through a lot of drivers in recent years. do you think this constant rotation is beneficial for the drivers themselves, or does it create an environment of instability and pressure?

Mark Johnson: It’s a double-edged sword. On one hand, it provides opportunities for young drivers to showcase their talent on the biggest stage. Conversely, it creates a cutthroat environment where drivers are constantly looking over their shoulders. The Pérez situation is a prime example. Even with a contract extension, he wasn’t safe. This can lead to drivers being overly cautious, hindering their performance. I would argue that a team should value long term stability , as it allows room to grow without the incessant fear of loosing the dream of driving in the best league, this can allow drivers room to take risks that could otherwise be avoided.

Moderator: Absolutely. The pressure cooker environment can definitely take its toll. Now, shifting gears slightly, how do you see this driver change affecting Red Bull’s chances in the Constructors’ Championship next year?

Mark Johnson: In the short term, I don’t think it will have a significant impact. Verstappen is still the dominant force, and lawson, even if he doesn’t immediately challenge for wins, should be able to consistently score points. However, in the long term, it could be a boon for Red Bull. If Lawson develops into a genuine contender,they’ll have two drivers capable of challenging for wins,making them an even more formidable force. However, stability in the constructor’s depends on how soon Lawson is up to the F1 pace.

Moderator: Mark, what advice would you give to Liam Lawson as he prepares to step into this highly demanding role?

Mark Johnson: Firstly, soak it all in. Learn from Verstappen,learn from the engineers,and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Secondly, stay true to yourself. Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Drive your own race, trust your instincts, and don’t let the pressure get to you. And thirdly, remember that you’re driving for the best team in Formula 1. Embrace the chance and give it your all. This is a make or break moment for Lawson,an opportunity he can’t waste.

Moderator: Excellent advice, Mark. Thank you so much for sharing your insights with us. Your outlook has been incredibly valuable.

Mark johnson: It was my pleasure!

Reader engagement

That concludes our interview with Mark Johnson. We want to hear from you now! Do you agree with Mark that Liam Lawson will eventually challenge Max Verstappen? Or do you think he’ll primarily be a supporting driver? Share your thoughts in the comments below!