Liam Lawson Addresses Surprise Demotion from Red Bull Racing and Future Uncertainty

New Zealand’s Liam Lawson admits he was not anticipating his early dismissal by Red Bull after merely two races. He aims to capitalize on this opportunity within Formula 1, even if his long-term future remains uncertain.

The Shocking Demotion and Its Impact on Lawson’s Career

Lawson has been reassigned to Racing Bulls following a challenging stint at Red Bull. Yuki Tsunoda will take over Lawson’s seat with the senior team starting from this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix. The abrupt nature of Lawson’s removal from the team has dominated headlines ahead of the third round of the season in Suzuka, where he will once again compete for after ending last year with their junior squad.

It was something I wasn’t expecting so early, but something that obviously is not my decision,” Lawson said. “For me, it’s about making the most of this opportunity now and still being in Formula 1; I still have that.

The Details Behind His Demotion

Lawson shared insights into how he was informed of the decision to replace him with Tsunoda before a race he had been eagerly anticipating following a difficult start to the year. “I had no idea in China. It was something that was decided, I guess, on Monday or Tuesday afterwards. I found out after China, basically,” he said.

It was more of a done deal [when I was told]. I left China starting preparations for Japan and I had a phone call saying that this is what was going to happen.” Lawson expressed his excitement about returning to a track where he had previously raced, hoping it would provide him with a solid foundation.

The Challenges Ahead and His Long-Term Goals

Lawson acknowledged that he is not the first driver to find himself moved from Red Bull to one of their second teams, but others had more time to demonstrate their worth for a top-tier seat. None of the previous drivers demoted have ever regained a Red Bull drive, and Lawson, when asked if that was now his objective, remained focused on the present.

I think we know how Formula 1 is and how quickly things change. I mean, if I look back a year ago, I had no seat. I was here a year ago, watching and wishing I was racing,” he added. “Then I had the opportunity to race at the end of last year and the opportunity then to go to Red Bull Racing. So, a lot has happened in 12 months.

Lawson emphasized that his primary goal is to remain in a car and prove his worth within Formula 1. He aims to focus on driving fast and let his performance speak for itself regarding his future prospects. “In terms of where my future is, I don’t know, and for me, the only way I can control that is by driving fast,” he concluded.