Liam Lawson Joins Oracle Red Bull Racing: A Kiwi’s Dream Come True

In a move that has thrilled motorsport fans, New Zealand’s rising star Liam Lawson is set to step into the Oracle Red Bull Racing seat for the 2025 FIA Formula One World Championship. After an impressive stint with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls in 2024, Lawson will now race alongside four-time world champion Max Verstappen. Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting development:

From Junior Program to F1 Stardom

Liam Lawson’s journey to the pinnacle of motorsport has been nothing short of inspiring. A proud Kiwi, Lawson joined the Red Bull Junior Programme in 2019. His talent quickly shone through, leading to multiple successes in junior formulas. A standout moment came in 2021 when he finished second overall in the prestigious DTM series, racing for Red Bull AF Corse.

The New Zealander’s Formula One debut came in 2023 with Scuderia AlphaTauri at the Dutch Grand Prix. It didn’t take long for Lawson to make his mark, scoring his first championship points just a race later in Singapore. Across five races that season, he showcased the potential that Red Bull had nurtured for years.

2024: The Breakthrough Year

After taking on Reserve Driver duties for Oracle Red Bull Racing and Visa Cash App Racing Bulls in 2024, Lawson returned to the grid mid-season with the latter. His performance was nothing short of stellar. Highlights included a ninth-place finish at the United States Grand Prix and a repeat performance in Singapore. Partnering with Yuki Tsunoda, Lawson wrapped up the 2024 season with consistent displays that earned him widespread admiration.

The Next Chapter: Oracle Red Bull Racing

At just 22 years old, Lawson now takes the ultimate step in his career. He will replace seasoned Mexican driver Sergio Pérez, who has been a pivotal figure for the team. Pérez’s legacy includes helping secure two consecutive Constructors’ Championships in 2022 and 2023, alongside individual accolades such as second place in the 2023 Drivers’ Championship.

Lawson’s excitement is palpable. Reflecting on his promotion, he shared:

“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. The last six races with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls have played a huge part in preparing me for this step. I’m super excited to work alongside Max and learn from a world champion. I can’t wait to get going!”

A Leader’s Confidence

Christian Horner, Team Principal and CEO of Oracle Red Bull Racing, expressed his confidence in Lawson:

“Liam’s performances over his two stints with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls have demonstrated that he’s not only capable of delivering strong results but that he’s also a real racer, unafraid to mix it with the best. Promoting from within the Red Bull Junior Programme is part of our ethos, and Liam follows in the footsteps of champions like Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen. Racing alongside Max is undoubtedly a daunting task, but I’m sure Liam will rise to the challenge and deliver outstanding results.”

A New Era for Red Bull Racing

As Lawson prepares to take the wheel in 2025, the stage is set for a thrilling season. With Verstappen’s unparalleled expertise and Lawson’s raw talent, Oracle Red Bull Racing’s dynamic duo promises to deliver edge-of-the-seat action.

Will Lawson’s dream debut season lead to podiums, or even victories? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: New Zealand has a new motorsport hero, and the world is ready to watch him shine.