Janice R. Andrews
As the 2024 F1 season nears its end, Red Bull Racing is faced with a major decision: continue with Sergio Perez or make a daring move by replacing him with rising star Liam Lawson for 2025. With each race, the debate intensifies, especially as Perez’s underwhelming performances increasingly hinder Red Bull’s championship aspirations. Team principal Christian Horner has expressed frustration over Perez’s form, fueling discussions about Lawson’s potential as a valuable asset. Here, we examine the reasons why Red Bull might consider Lawson as Perez’s successor and the factors making this an intriguing yet difficult choice.
Perez’s Performance Challenges and Red Bull’s Frustration
Sergio Perez joined Red Bull in 2021, a career-saving opportunity after he left Racing Point. While Perez initially showed promise, his performance has significantly dropped off, particularly in 2024. Despite having a contract for 2025, contracts in Formula 1 are often flexible, and Red Bull’s confidence in Perez appears to be dwindling. As Christian Horner finds it harder to defend Perez’s lackluster results, questions arise about how much longer the team can justify his place, especially when it impacts both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships.
This season, Perez sits eighth in the Drivers’ Championship, trailing teammate Max Verstappen by a massive 242 points. This gap highlights the issues Red Bull faces as it strives to secure the Constructors’ title and meet performance expectations that are currently unmet due to Perez’s inconsistency. Red Bull’s financial setup, with bonuses tied to team success, adds pressure on Perez as each missed podium may cost Red Bull employees substantial rewards.
Liam Lawson’s Growing Case as a Rising Talent
While Perez has struggled, Liam Lawson has emerged as a promising contender. The young driver from New Zealand has consistently demonstrated skill and poise. His recent races, including a points-scoring finish in Austin, have been solid, reflecting a maturity beyond his years. Lawson’s ability to stay composed under pressure and resilience during races have garnered attention from Red Bull’s leadership.
Lawson’s talent was further highlighted when he skillfully handled an on-track clash with Fernando Alonso, one of the grid’s most seasoned drivers. His assertive reaction demonstrated his mental toughness and willingness to defend his position. Unlike some rookies who might buckle under such pressure, Lawson remained focused and competitive, a quality that aligns with Red Bull’s values.
Support from Verstappen for Lawson
Max Verstappen’s endorsement of Lawson—and his father Jos Verstappen’s approval—adds weight to Red Bull’s considerations. Their opinions hold significant influence within Red Bull’s camp, and both have voiced their support for Lawson. Jos Verstappen, a prominent figure in F1, praised Lawson’s performance, suggesting he’s ready for a full-time seat. With Verstappen’s approval, Lawson’s potential role with Red Bull aligns with the team’s strategy of maintaining harmony between drivers—key to a smooth team dynamic.
Red Bull’s Strategic Goals and the Constructors’ Championship
Red Bull’s ultimate goal is securing the Constructors’ Championship and supporting Verstappen’s title pursuits. Perez’s inconsistency poses a risk to Red Bull’s standings, particularly against strong rivals like McLaren. Replacing Perez with Lawson could address these issues, ensuring that both drivers contribute effectively to championship aspirations.
Moreover, Perez’s performance struggles impact Red Bull’s workforce morale. Many employees rely on performance-based bonuses, which are at risk with each missed podium. As Red Bull contemplates changes for 2025, a consistent, high-performing second driver may be essential to achieve team rewards.
Considering Colapinto as Another Option
An intriguing twist in Red Bull’s considerations is Argentine talent Franco Colapinto, who shows potential but remains unproven at F1’s highest level. Horner’s recent presence in Williams’ hospitality area at the Brazilian Grand Prix sparked speculation about Colapinto’s availability. However, his disappointing performance in Sao Paulo raises questions about his readiness for Red Bull. While Colapinto brings strong endorsements and sponsorship potential, his limited F1 experience and mixed results make Lawson a safer option for 2025.
Choosing Colapinto would be a gamble given his limited F1 experience, while Lawson has a proven track record of steady performances and familiarity with Red Bull’s operations, making him a more reliable choice for next season.
Perez’s Potential Exit: An Inevitable Path?
If Red Bull opts for Lawson over Perez, it raises questions about Perez’s future in F1. One possibility is a switch to AlphaTauri alongside Yuki Tsunoda, but with limited seat availability, Perez may face an early retirement. Alternatively, Perez’s sponsorship potential and connections could help him find a place on another team, though such opportunities are limited.
For Perez, a change of environment could offer a fresh start, allowing him to re-establish himself in a lower-stress setting. Nonetheless, a departure from Red Bull seems increasingly likely if his performance doesn’t improve.
Lawson’s Strengths: Consistency and Team Fit
Lawson’s strongest attribute is his consistency, a quality Red Bull values in its pursuit of championships. Compared to Colapinto, who remains untested, Lawson has demonstrated he can deliver steady performances and adapt quickly to F1 demands. Furthermore, Lawson’s compatibility with Verstappen and support from Jos Verstappen strengthen his case for a seamless transition within Red Bull’s team structure.
As Red Bull considers its 2025 lineup, Lawson’s blend of reliability, skill, and team compatibility make him an ideal candidate to support Verstappen. His relationship with the Verstappens also suggests he could avoid the team conflicts that have affected previous Red Bull pairings.
Final Thoughts: A New Era for Red Bull in 2025?
Red Bull stands at a pivotal moment. While Perez’s contract extends into 2025, the need for results could lead to a reshuffle that places Lawson in the spotlight. With solid performances, strong rapport with Verstappen, and growing confidence, Lawson represents a high-reward option for Red Bull. His presence could strengthen Red Bull’s championship ambitions, ensuring both drivers contribute effectively to Constructors’ goals and creating a dynamic that keeps Verstappen motivated.
Should Red Bull decide on the switch, it would signify a commitment to future success, prioritizing performance over financial sponsorships. In F1’s high-stakes world, loyalty often takes a back seat to results, and for Perez, the clock may be ticking.
Conclusion
The decision between Perez and Lawson highlights Red Bull’s unique challenge of balancing loyalty, performance, and team cohesion. For now, Perez’s future remains uncertain as Red Bull moves closer to a decision with each race. With Verstappen’s success and Red Bull’s championship goals at stake, the temptation for a fresh start with Lawson may prove irresistible. All eyes will be on Red Bull as they decide whether to secure their future with Lawson as Verstappen’s new teammate in 2025.
