New Zealand racing talent Liam Lawson has faced a difficult challenge after being demoted from Red Bull Racing just two races into the season, a setback linked to difficulties with car comfort. Despite this, Lawson has shown determination, producing strong results that keep him in the hunt within Formula 1’s competitive landscape.
Lawson’s brief promotion to Red Bull came as he replaced Sergio Perez, but the lack of familiarity with the Albert Park and Shanghai circuits in Formula 1 contributed to his swift replacement by Yuki Tsunoda following the Australian and Chinese Grands Prix. His struggles centered on adapting to the Red Bull VCARB-02 vehicle, which differed significantly from the RB21 he had driven earlier in the season.
The driver stressed how critical car comfort is for peak performance, noting the challenges of making necessary adjustments during race weekends rather than ahead of the season. This need to adapt on the fly made it harder for Lawson to demonstrate his full potential. Throughout this turbulent period, Laurent Mekies provided crucial support, assisting Lawson in preparation, especially for races like the one in Japan. Lawson credited Mekies’ understanding and his ability to connect with drivers as a vital element amid the pressures.
Currently, Liam Lawson trails teammate Isack Hadjar by just nine points, fueling speculation about next season’s lineup. Rumors suggest Hadjar may soon replace Yuki Tsunoda as Max Verstappen’s teammate in 2026, complicating Lawson’s path within the Red Bull hierarchy. Despite these uncertainties, Lawson’s recent performances, including a career-best fifth-place finish in Azerbaijan, signal his ongoing resilience and potential for growth.
As Liam Lawson continues to navigate this critical phase of his career, his ability to overcome adversity will determine whether he reestablishes himself among Formula 1’s elite drivers. The coming races and team decisions will be decisive for his future within Red Bull Racing.
