New star in the F1 sky: Liam Lawson replaces Perez at Red Bull!

New star in the F1 sky: Liam Lawson replaces Perez at Red Bull!

After the disappointing performance of Sergio Perez in Formula 1, Red Bull Racing made the decision to appoint Liam Lawson as the new teammate from Max Verstappen. Lawson, who comes from New Zealand, brings a breath of fresh air to the team after being able to demonstrate his skills in eleven races for Alphatauri (now Racing Bulls). According to Motorsport Director Helmut Marko, Lawson chooses due to his mental strength and his great development potential, although he has less racing experience than his competitor Yuki Tsunoda. Marko explained that Lawson was able to show in a competitive car what he was made of and praised his ability to pass in printing situations, which makes him the ideal partner for Verstappen, who recently won his fourth driver, like Vavel.

Red Bull's decision to choose Lawson via Tsunoda illustrates the current strategy of promoting young talents by being able to move up to the main team. Tsunoda is recognized for his performance and experience, but the choice fell on Lawson, who, despite his low racing experience, showed outstanding achievements. In the past seasons, it was shown that Tsunoda could not maintain the consistency that is necessary for a place at Red Bull. Marko emphasized that although Tsunoda was faster, the overall package Lawson, including its exciting and attractive driving style, was clearly preferred, which already raised the first doubts about Tsunoda's future as Red Bull driver, like Laola1 noted.

Lawson's introduction to Red Bull's main team also raises questions, because earlier talent promotions have not always brought the desired success. Drivers like Albon and Pierre Gasly were promoted prematurely and were often overwhelmed in the pressure situation of the team. Nevertheless, Lawson's unshakable attitude, coupled with the potential learning advantage through cooperation with Verstappen, could decisively advance his development. In the context of the coming season, a passionate competition between the two drivers will remain exciting, while the decision on Perez 'successor will be further discussed in the coming days.