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In the fast-paced world of Formula 1, change is the only constant. For Liam Lawson, the young Kiwi driver, joining Red Bull Racing marks a significant turning point in his career. With the departure of Sergio Perez, Lawson steps into a high-pressure environment, ready to learn and grow alongside one of the sport’s greatest talents, Max Verstappen.
A new chapter begins
Lawson’s ascent to Red Bull comes after a challenging season for Perez, who struggled to find his footing with the RB20 car. The decision to replace him was not taken lightly, but it reflects Red Bull’s commitment to maintaining their competitive edge in the constructors’ championship. Lawson, with only 11 races under his belt, is aware of the expectations that come with this opportunity. He understands that comparisons to Verstappen are inevitable, but he views this as a chance to absorb invaluable knowledge from a seasoned champion.
Learning from the best
“It’s just a big opportunity to have somebody like Max [to learn from],” Lawson expressed, acknowledging Verstappen’s impressive track record of four world championships. The young driver is keen to tap into Verstappen’s feedback and data, aiming to accelerate his own development in the sport. Lawson’s approach is refreshingly humble; he recognizes the vast experience that Verstappen brings to the table and intends to leverage it to enhance his own skills.
Aligning feedback and expectations
As Lawson embarks on this journey, he is optimistic about his initial experiences with the RB21 car. Despite limited pre-season testing, he feels encouraged by the alignment in feedback between himself and Verstappen regarding the car’s performance. “From where I sit, it’s more adapting to what it is, and honestly trying to match what he’s doing,” Lawson noted. This collaborative spirit is essential in a team environment where every detail can make a difference on race day.
Facing the challenges ahead
While Lawson is excited about the future, he is also realistic about the challenges he faces. Competing against a driver of Verstappen’s caliber is no small feat, and Lawson is determined to use this experience to propel himself forward. “For me, it’s about using him to get better and to develop as quickly as possible,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to growth and improvement. As he prepares for his first full season, Lawson’s enthusiasm and dedication are palpable, making him a driver to watch in the upcoming races.