Liam Lawson is set to make a thrilling return to the grid this weekend. After five stand-in appearances in 2023, he was called up post the Singapore GP to replace Daniel Ricciardo at Visa RB. This news didn’t come as a surprise to the young New Zealander, who had been promised a seat in Formula 1 much earlier. Lawson aims to use the upcoming six Grands Prix to prove that he’s ready for a contract with Red Bull.
“I always knew I would return to Formula 1 this year,” said Liam Lawson in the F1 Nation podcast. “Christian (Horner) promised me that last year. However, things can change quickly in this sport. One moment it looks very favorable, and the next moment it does not. That’s challenging, as you constantly have to question your chances. At the same time, it all depends on how the current drivers are performing.”
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Lawson’s Regret Over His Formula 1 Entry
Lawson admitted his disappointment over the circumstances that led to his Formula 1 entry. “It’s unfortunate that someone else’s misfortune is my ticket in,” he said, referring to Daniel Ricciardo’s lackluster season. “But someone had to leave. I have immense respect for how he (Ricciardo) handled it,” added the 22-year-old driver. “He has always been very good to me. In Singapore, I had mixed feelings, but I honestly told him that I’m sorry and I know how tough this is for him.”
Aiming for Red Bull
“The team wants me to perform as well as Yuki Tsunoda,” Lawson looked ahead to the rest of the season. “We’re still in the race for sixth place in the constructors’ championship, so we’re definitely focusing on that. The goal is to score as many points as possible. If we succeed, we’re doing well.” However, Lawson also has personal ambitions – if he performs well in the next six Grands Prix, he hopes to catch the eye of sister team Red Bull.
“I’m not too focused on it yet,” the New Zealander admitted. “But my ultimate goal is to go to Red Bull. After all, they also have to look to the future – if Max (Verstappen) or Checo (Pérez) leaves, they need to have a replacement ready. When that would happen, I don’t know yet. It all depends on the upcoming races.”
