Liam Lawson, the eye-catching 21-year-old racing talent from New Zealand, is placing all bets on his involvement in Formula 1. The rookie reserve, who had to step down from the Alpha Tauri seat as Daniel Ricciardo made his return from a broken hand recently, will not return to Japan’s Super Formula in 2024 despite his impressive runner-up finish this year.
Instead, Red Bull wants Lawson is set to commit his time and efforts entirely as the full-time, on-site reserve driver for the Red Bull Racing and Alpha Tauri F1 teams. This strategic move also ensures that he remains intimately connected to the pinnacle of motor racing and stands as the first alternative should the swirling rumours about Sergio Perez’s future at Red Bull result in an open seat.
Speaking on the Beyond The Grid podcast, Lawson shared his sentiments about the year ahead. “It’s frustrating to not be driving next year,” he acknowledged, underlining the bittersweet nature of his position. Despite the setback, his optimism remains undented as he focuses on the possibilities that lie within the F1 environment. “But I will continue to make the most of still being involved in Formula 1 at least,” Lawson affirmed. With his eyes firmly on the prize in backing Red Bull’s call for his 2024 campaign, he insists: “If I ever get a chance in Formula 1, it’ll be through Red Bull.”
