F1: Liam Lawson Replaces Sergio Perez at Red Bull

Red Bull Racing has selected Liam Lawson as Max Verstappen’s new Formula 1 teammate, following Sergio Perez’s exit after a challenging season. Perez's departure, announced on Wednesday, creates an opportunity for the 22-year-old New Zealander, who steps up from Red Bull’s junior Racing Bulls team. Lawson has limited F1 experience, with just 11 starts to his name. He made six appearances late in the 2024 season, replacing Daniel Ricciardo, and filled in for the injured Australian during five races in 2023. His F1 debut came at the Dutch Grand Prix after Ricciardo's hand injury during a practice crash. This year, Lawson impressed by scoring points in his first outing at the United States Grand Prix and securing another top-10 finish in Brazil. Reports suggest he was informed about his promotion prior to the season finale in Abu Dhabi. 

Liam 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. 

Also Read: F1: Sergio Perez Leaves Red Bull Racing After Challenging 2024 Season

‘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!'

Christian Horner said: 'I’m delighted to announce that Liam Lawson will join the Team in 2025. 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. 

Also Read: F1: Max Verstappen Officially Crowned 2024 World Champion After Serving Penalty in Rwanda

‘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.'

As Red Bull searches for a replacement for Liam Lawson, Formula 2 rising star Isack Hadjar emerges as the top contender.