Liam Lawson, New Zealand’s rising star in Formula 1, is steeling himself for a mentally challenging season, as he strives to overcome the psychological hurdles that come with competing at the sport’s highest level. As Lawson embarks on his monumental second year in F1, his mental battles are expected to play a decisive role in his performance and growth.
Early Lessons from High-Pressure Opportunities
In 2023 and 2024, Lawson was thrust into the global spotlight when he substituted for Daniel Ricciardo, racing through a series of tightly packed events that put his endurance and resolve to the test. Those double shifts offered him an unforgiving introduction to the mental stamina required, as he navigated the whirlwind of F1’s non-stop schedule and intensity.
Reflecting on the demanding 2025 calendar, which featured a record-breaking 24 races, Lawson shared insight into the psychological strain unique to Formula 1:
“The biggest thing about Formula 1, compared to other racing categories, is the time between races,”
Liam Lawson, driver.
He elaborated on the unrelenting tempo of race weekends, emphasizing how quickly circumstances can change:
“You think you’re well prepared, but once you hit the race weekend, things can spiral quickly. You find yourself in qualifying before you know it, and if that session doesn’t go well, you’re left scrambling.”
Liam Lawson, driver.
The Emotional Rollercoaster of Race Weekends
For Lawson, Formula 1 has proven to be a constant test of emotional resilience. Each weekend, fortunes can swing unexpectedly, making it critical for drivers to maintain composure under immense pressure.
“You’re constantly battling with your emotions throughout the year,”
Liam Lawson, driver.
He offered a candid assessment of the volatility that defines consecutive races, especially during high-density runs known as triple headers. Lawson’s experience underpins the critical role of mental strength within the racing bulls team, as a single mistake or moment of brilliance can sharply alter both momentum and morale:
“One weekend you can have an incredible performance, and the next, complete frustration. It’s a mental game like no other.”
Liam Lawson, driver.
Gaining Perspective Ahead of the 2026 Season
With preparations underway for his campaign with Racing Bulls in 2026, Lawson is approaching the year with newfound maturity and awareness of the psychological battle ahead.
“I’m much more aware of the mental demands heading into this year,”
Liam Lawson, driver.
This sharpened insight, stemming from his past stints and emotional ups and downs, has shaped Lawson’s approach—focusing on key moments and extracting valuable lessons from both triumphs and setbacks. The landscape of Formula 1 demands more than technical skill; it calls for the mental resilience to rebound swiftly from adversity and capitalize on every opportunity.
The Significance of Lawson’s Mental Fortitude on the F1 Grid
As anticipation builds for the new season, the story of Liam Lawson in F1 is as much about navigating intense mental battles as it is about racing at breathtaking speed. Fans and rivals alike will watch closely to see whether Lawson, shaped by the trials of previous seasons, can conquer the inner game that often defines champions. Against the backdrop of unyielding competition, his journey underscores the critical intersection of psychology and high-performance motorsport—and may inspire others to recognize the profound mental challenges behind the spectacle.
