Formula 1 finally returns this weekend with the Dutch Grand Prix. Like every start of "race week" Helmut Marko it cannot fail to be talked about. This time he does it with a very succulent statement: Liam Lawson he will drive one of Red Bull's cars in 2025.
Lawson, from the beginning to the waiting
Just under a year ago – precisely on August 27, 2023 – Liam Lawson took to the track aboard the former Alpha Tauri to replace Daniel Ricciardo returning from hand injury.
His first Grand Prix was held in Zandvoort, in Holland, and there is therefore no better weekend to talk about New Zealand. Since his debut he has proven to be a good driver for the Racing Bulls team, competing in 3 races and convincing the team bosses that he is an excellent resource to keep close.
Showing all his skills in Monza and Singapore, Lawson is still today – a year later – a hot topic among the Perez – Ricciardo dispute. Because if it's true that Sergio Perez he may be replaced by Daniel Ricciardo, it is also true that the vacant seat in RB will be allocated to the New Zealander.
Mark's words
In response to rumors according to which the driver was tired of Red Bull's continuous "bench" and was interested in new teams, Helmut Marko don't wait any longer.
Regarding Lawson's personality he states dryly: «Next year he will sit completely in one of our cars», according to what we read above Kleine Zeitung.
However, as it is not specified, it cannot be ruled out that he could directly take the place of number 11, alongside Max Verstappen. For the Mexican there is an ultimatum for the second half of the season, with changes requested starting this weekend in Zandvoort.
His race engineer Hugh Bird is on paternity leave, which is why compatriot Richard Wood will take his place. Despite this, there aren't many changes on the RB20.
«I'm optimistic. We were recently hit way below value. In Zandvoort, qualifying becomes particularly important. Together with McLaren we are certainly among the favourites" is what Marko himself ends with.
