Lawson confirmed as Perez replacement for 2025

Liam Lawson has been confirmed as Sergio Perez’s successor at Red Bull Racing for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

Perez’s departure from the team was announced on Wednesday following negotiations to terminate his contract and it was agreed that he would leave the team with immediate effect. In his place, Red Bull chose Lawson over Yuki Tsunoda as the New Zealander had only started 11 Grands Prix in the last two seasons.

“I am pleased to announce that Liam Lawson will be joining the team in 2025,” said team principal Christian Horner. “Liam’s performances during his two outings with the Visa Cash App Racing Bulls have shown that he is not only capable of delivering strong results, but that he is also a true racer who is not afraid to take on the best to compete and emerge victorious.”

“His arrival continues the team’s long history of success within the Red Bull Junior program and he follows in the footsteps of championship and racing drivers such as Sebastian Vettel and of course Max Verstappen.

“There is no doubt that it is a huge task to drive alongside Max, a four-time champion and undoubtedly one of the best drivers Formula 1 has ever had, but I am sure Liam will can meet this challenge and deliver some outstanding results for us next year.”

Lawson says his second stint at RB – where he replaced Daniel Ricciardo for the rest of this season after the Singapore Grand Prix – was crucial for him and proved he is ready for the opportunity.

“Being announced as an Oracle Red Bull Racing driver is a lifelong dream for me. This is something I have wanted and worked towards since I was eight years old,” Lawson said. “It’s been an incredible journey so far.

“I would like to thank the entire VCARB team for their support. The last six races have played a big role in my preparation for this next step. I would also like to thank Christian, Helmut (Marko) and the entire Red Bull family for believing in me and giving me this chance. I’m really looking forward to working with Max and learning from a world champion. I have no doubt that I will learn from his expertise. I can’t wait to get started!”

The decision is intended to pave the way for Formula 2 runner-up Isack Hadjar to replace Lawson at RB alongside Yuki Tsunoda. The Japanese driver is overlooked by the top team despite having competed in 87 Grand Prix races over the last four seasons.