Red Bull Racing has confirmed that Liam Lawson will replace Sergio Pérez as Max Verstappen’s teammate for the 2025 Formula 1 season. Although this marks a significant step in Lawson’s rising career, the decision has sparked debate as Yuki Tsunoda, Lawson’s Racing Bulls teammate, has once again been overlooked for a promotion to the senior team.
The announcement follows months of speculation regarding Sergio Pérez’s future with Red Bull, after an inconsistent 2024 campaign. Team Principal Christian Horner highlighted Lawson’s performances as the driving factor behind the decision. “I’m delighted to announce that Liam Lawson will join the Team in 2025,” he said.
“Liam’s performances over the course of his two stints with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls have demonstrated that he’s not only capable of delivering strong results but that he’s also a real racer, not afraid to mix it with the best and come out on top.”
“His arrival continues the Team’s long history of promoting from within the Red Bull Junior Programme, and he follows in the footsteps of championship and race-winning drivers such as Sebastian Vettel and of course, Max Verstappen.”
“There’s no doubt that racing alongside Max, a four-time champion and undoubtedly, one of the greatest drivers ever seen in F1, is a daunting task, but I’m sure Liam can rise to that challenge and deliver some outstanding results for us next year.”
Yuki Tsunoda, who has steadily improved over his time at Racing Bulls, was considered a strong contender for the Red Bull seat. Backed by Honda and now a more mature driver, Tsunoda delivered consistent midfield results throughout the 2024 season. Despite this, Red Bull still opted to promote Lawson.
Lawson’s journey to Red Bull
Lawson’s promotion caps off an impressive rise through the ranks. The New Zealander shone during his substitute role in 2023, filling in for Daniel Ricciardo at AlphaTauri in 2023, where he earned plaudits for his composure and race craft.
Happy about 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.”
“It’s been an incredible journey so far. I want to say a massive thank you to the whole team at VCARB for their support, the last six races have played a huge part in my preparation for this next step. I also want to thank, Christian, Helmut and the whole Red Bull family for believing in me and giving me this opportunity.”
“I am super excited to work alongside Max and learn from a World Champion, I have no doubt I will learn from his expertise. I can’t wait to get going!”
End of an era for Pérez
Pérez leaves Red Bull with a big legacy, including his contributions to the team’s Constructors’ Championship victories and pivotal support roles in Verstappen’s title runs, during past seasons. However, his struggles to match Verstappen’s pace in 2024 made his seat vulnerable.
The Mexican driver’s next steps in F1 or beyond are yet to be confirmed. Rumours suggest interest from rival teams and endurance racing programs.
The future of Red Bull
The team hopes Lawson will bring fresh energy to the line-up while handling the pressures of partnering Verstappen. With Tsunoda staying at Racing Bulls, it remains to be seen how the Japanese driver will respond to the team’s decision in what could be a defining season for his career.
Red Bull’s 2025 line-up of Verstappen and Lawson sets the stage for a fascinating dynamic within the team. All eyes will be on Lawson, as he prepares for the biggest opportunity of his career.
