Liam Lawson is making waves in the world of Formula 1 as he steps in to replace Daniel Ricciardo for the remaining six races of the 2024 season. The 22-year-old New Zealander has already demonstrated that he’s more than ready to compete with the best. But who is Liam Lawson, and how did he get to this point?
Early Beginnings: Karting to Formula Racing
Lawson’s journey began at the age of seven, when he first took up karting in his native New Zealand. By 2014, he had already secured multiple karting titles before making his move into single-seater racing. In 2016, Lawson won the New Zealand Formula 1600 Championship, with 14 wins, becoming the series’ youngest champion. He quickly advanced, finishing runner-up in Australian and ADAC Formula 4, gaining the attention of talent scouts.
This led to his recruitment into the Red Bull Junior Team, a prestigious development program known for producing Formula 1 talent.
Climbing the Ladder: Formula 3 and Formula 2
Lawson continued to rise through the ranks, joining the FIA Formula 3 Championship in 2019 and later competing in the FIA Formula 2 Championship. His time in these series showcased his aggressive yet composed driving style, earning him several podium finishes. In Formula 2, Lawson finished second overall, making him one of the most exciting young prospects in motorsport.
By 2023, Red Bull promoted Lawson to Formula 1 as a reserve driver for Visa Cash App RB (then AlphaTauri). When Daniel Ricciardo sustained an injury mid-season, Lawson was thrust into the spotlight to fill his seat.
Formula 1 Debut: A Star is Born
Liam Lawson debuted in Formula 1 at the 2023 Dutch Grand Prix, handling tricky conditions and avoiding rookie mistakes. His standout performance came at the 2023 Singapore Grand Prix, where he finished 9th and scored his first Formula 1 points.
Lawson’s composure under pressure earned praise from team principal Laurent Mekies and Red Bull Racing’s Christian Horner, who both view him as a strong contender for a full-time Formula 1 seat.
Replacing Ricciardo: The Big Opportunity
In a surprising turn of events, Red Bull Racing made the decision to drop Daniel Ricciardo from Visa Cash App RB for the remainder of the 2024 season. The team let go of Ricciardo after he struggled to find form and failed to deliver consistent results during the season.
This gives Lawson six races, starting at the US Grand Prix, to prove he deserves a 2025 grid spot. With Red Bull’s full backing, Lawson is determined to make the most of this opportunity. He has proven he can outperform experienced drivers and is poised to play a key role in Red Bull’s future.
A Rising Talent with a Bright Future
Liam Lawson’s career trajectory shows that he has the potential to be a major force in Formula 1.
His composed, assertive driving and junior category consistency make him an exciting young driver in motorsport. The 2024 season’s final races will be crucial in determining his future in Formula 1.
For fans of racing, Lawson’s rise offers a thrilling narrative—one that you can experience firsthand by placing your bets on him and other F1 talents through Easybet, South Africa’s go-to online sports betting app. Easybet offers competitive odds, keeping you engaged with every twist of the F1 season.
As Liam Lawson prepares for this big opportunity, all eyes will watch if he secures his spot in racing.
