Liam Lawson hopes to drive in F1 again this 2024 season
Liam Lawson holds the position of reserve driver for Red Bull and AlphaTauri during the 2024 season. The New Zealander made a strong impression during his brief stint in 2023.
He generated enthusiasm during his brief stint in 2023. Liam Lawson now holds the position of reserve driver for Red Bull and AlphaTauri for the upcoming season. The New Zealander had the opportunity to participate in a few Formula 1 races in the previous year, replacing Daniel Ricciardo at AlphaTauri, as the latter was injured in the metacarpal.
During these five races, the Superformula vice-champion managed to score two points in the world championship, despite the difficulties with the Italian racing car. His driving skills, precision, and aggression were praised. Although he was not chosen as a full-time driver for 2024, the Red Bull program was convinced and offered him a reserve position.
Limited opportunities
At first glance, the year 2024 seems to be a year without F1 participation for Liam Lawson. Having taken part in five Grand Prix races, he has lost his Rookie status and will thus be unable to participate in Red Bull and AlphaTauri’s FP1 sessions. Furthermore, it seems unlikely that Red Bull would replace Sergio Perez with him if needed. The AlphaTauri driver duo also appears to be well-established at the beginning of the year.
“I don’t know when and in which race car I will drive, that remains to be determined,” explained Liam Lawson to the New Zealand Herald. “I would love to be behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car and we are all working towards making that happen, whether it’s testing or racing. But for now, nothing is confirmed. These are actually just a few conversations. We have discussions throughout the year as the season progresses.”
A year 2023 full of emotions.
Liam Lawson’s year 2023 has been very emotionally intense. In addition to discovering the world of Formula 1, the 21-year-old athlete also participated in Superformula races, finishing in 2nd place overall in the championship. He won three out of the nine races. However, his last weekend in Motegi was challenging, resulting in a 13th place and the loss of the title.
« I think we all noticed that winning the Super Formula was achievable and that the speed was there, said Liam Lawson. « But obviously, to win a championship, you need more than that. There are things I did during the season that I’m reflecting on and will probably regret, let’s say, in this championship moment that cost a lot of points, but that’s part of the process.
