F1 2025: Red Bull announces Liam Lawson as Sergio Perez replacement

Formula 1 side Red Bull Racing announced Liam Lawson as its replacement for Sergio Perez as its second driver for the next F1 season.

New Zealand-born Lawson began his F1 journey when he joined the Red Bull Junior Programme in 2019. He made his F1 debut for Scuderia AlphaTauri at the 2023 Dutch Grand Prix, in place of the injured Daniel Ricciardo.

“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,” said Lawson after he was announced as reigning F1 champion Max Verstappen’s teammate.

“I also want to thank, Christian [Horner], Helmut [Marko] 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,” added Lawson.

The 22-year-old scored his first championship points in just his second F1 outing, at the Singapore GP. Liam returned to Grand Prix racing with Visa Cash App Racing Bull in the 2024, he recorded a points-scoring finish at this year’s United States Grand Prix. 

Lawson made his F2 debut in 2020 after two years in F3, joining HiTech. He clinched his maiden win on debut, ending his maiden campaign with one win and three podiums. He had a better stint in his second season, finishing third in the driver’s championship with 149 points, whilst claiming four victories and six other podiums.