Liam Lawson disclosed that he found out about Christian Horner’s departure from his role as Red Bull Racing CEO and team principal through media reports. The announcement was made on 9 July 2025, when Red Bull Racing confirmed Horner’s exit and the appointment of Laurent Mekies as his immediate successor. Lawson emphasized that despite the unexpected change, it does not significantly impact his focus or goals.
Lawson was asked how he came to know about the news, to which he replied,
“Probably the same as everybody else, in the media,”
—Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls. He added,
“I don’t remember when it was announced, but I found out afterwards.”
—Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls. His comments illustrate the unexpected manner in which the information reached him, highlighting the fast-paced nature of Formula 1 changes.
The Rapid Changes in Lawson’s 2025 Season Start
Reflecting on the early part of the 2025 Formula 1 season, Lawson described his own experience as evidence of how quickly things can evolve within the sport. Initially chosen to replace Sergio Perez as Max Verstappen’s team-mate, Lawson’s tenure alongside Verstappen was brief. After just two race weekends, he moved back to the Racing Bulls team, with Yuki Tsunoda taking over his seat in the main Red Bull team.
On the surprise element of these developments, Lawson shared,
“Yes, I would say it wasn’t something we expected, but things obviously change in Formula 1. It was surprising having these changes, but it doesn’t really change too much from my point of view of what I’m trying to achieve and what I’m working on.”
—Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls. This statement reflects his adaptability and steady focus despite shifting team dynamics and leadership.
Laurent Mekies Steps Up as New Red Bull Racing Team Principal
Laurent Mekies’ promotion to Red Bull Racing CEO and team principal required a transition within the organizational structure. Alan Permane, formerly the Racing Bulls sporting director, now occupies Mekies’ previous role. Lawson expressed confidence in Permane’s suitability for this position, underscoring the continuity within the team.
Lawson remarked on the positive influence of both Mekies and Permane, saying,
“Just having his presence has been very, very nice but still well within the Red Bull family and for Alan, he’s somebody who’s been in the team now for a couple of years and somebody that I think is very well suited for this position and has relationships with everybody and is very motivated as well to carry on Laurent’s form with what he was doing and we’re all very excited for that.”
—Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls. He noted that the leadership changes have maintained stability and motivation within the team.
Lawson’s Perspective on Team Leadership and Work Ethic
The 23-year-old New Zealander also reflected on Mekies’ leadership qualities, describing how the former team principal’s dedication has made a strong impression. Mekies’ work ethic and visibility at race weekends were highlighted as key factors in uniting the team and elevating its performance.
He elaborated,
“He was very, very good for that, worked very, very hard, he’s always there. On a Thursday I think every single race weekend he’s here on a Thursday – probably one of the first guys to arrive, and I guess to show everybody in the team that it is very important.”
—Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls. Lawson’s insights emphasize the importance of committed leadership in sustaining team morale and focus in the competitive environment of Formula 1.
The Impact of Leadership Transition on Red Bull Racing’s Future
The shift in leadership at Red Bull Racing comes at a pivotal moment in the 2025 season. Lawson’s calm and determined approach suggests that, despite changes at the executive level, the team remains aligned in its pursuit of success. With Mekies taking on the chief role and Permane stepping up as sporting director, the organizational structure seeks to preserve continuity and drive ongoing progress.
Lawson’s experience, from seat swaps to leadership transitions, exemplifies the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of Formula 1. His steady outlook reinforces a culture of resilience within the Red Bull Racing family, which could be crucial as the season continues to unfold and challenges arise.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why did Liam Lawson lose his seat?
A. Red Bull thought the New Zealander had more potential than the seasoned Tsunoda and the courage to manage F1’s toughest position. Horner and team adviser Helmut Marko both believed Lawson was the right choice. However, it turned out to be overwhelming and early for the 23-year-old.
Q. How did Liam Lawson lose his seat?
A. This was the first competitive race of the year in Australia. Lawson’s lap time in Q1 was over a second slower than Verstappen’s. He missed moving to Q2 by more than half a second because he made a mistake and locked up at the last chicane on his final lap.
Q. Has Liam Lawson got a seat in 2025?
A. In 2025, Lawson will join the main Red Bull team as Max Verstappen’s teammate, replacing Sergio Perez. He previously drove for Racing Bulls.
