Sergio Perez is Dropped by Redbull for New Zealand Superstar Liam Lawson
Lawson’s Lifelong Dream Realized Red Bull Seat Confirmed for 2025
Credit: Rudy Carezzevoli
New Zealand’s Liam Lawson has officially been announced as Sergio Perez’s successor at Red Bull Racing, fulfilling a lifelong dream after years of hard work and dedication. Perez’s departure, agreed upon earlier this week despite a contract extension through 2026, ends a four-year partnership with reigning champion Max Verstappen. Lawson, who joined the Red Bull Junior Programme in 2019, will step up to partner Verstappen starting in the 2025 Formula 1 season.
“To be announced as an Oracle Red Bull Racing driver is a lifelong dream for me,” Lawson said in an official statement. “This is something I’ve wanted and worked towards since I was eight years old. It’s been an incredible journey so far.”
The 21-year-old Kiwi expressed immense gratitude to the Red Bull family and the support system that helped him reach this milestone. His recent performances, particularly during his six-race stint with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls in 2024, played a pivotal role in his preparation for the promotion.
“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,” Lawson said. He also acknowledged the faith placed in him by team principal Christian Horner and Red Bull Motorsport Adviser Helmut Marko.
Lawson made his Formula 1 debut with Scuderia AlphaTauri at the 2023 Dutch Grand Prix, stepping in for Daniel Ricciardo. In just his second race, Lawson scored his first points at the Singapore Grand Prix, cementing his reputation as a promising talent. His rapid ascent in the sport has now earned him a seat alongside Verstappen, a daunting but exciting challenge for the young driver.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner expressed confidence in Lawson’s ability to deliver strong results. “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,” Horner stated.
Lawson’s promotion follows Red Bull’s tradition of nurturing talent from its junior program, which has produced championship-winning drivers like Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen.
As the new era for Red Bull begins, all eyes will be on Lawson to see how he rises to the challenge of competing at the highest level alongside a four-time world champion. For Lawson, the opportunity is not just a dream come true but the next step in what promises to be an extraordinary career.