What's happened
Red Bull Racing has confirmed Liam Lawson as Sergio Perez's replacement for the 2025 Formula 1 season, following Perez's disappointing performance in 2024. Isack Hadjar will take Lawson's seat at the sister team, Racing Bulls. Yuki Tsunoda remains with the team for a fifth year, amid ongoing changes within Red Bull's driver lineup.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Japan Times, Red Bull's team principal Christian Horner emphasized the need for a driver who can deliver results, stating, "You can't have a driver in the support team for five years." The Independent highlighted Lawson's excitement about his promotion, noting, "This is something I’ve wanted and worked towards since I was eight years old." Meanwhile, Horner praised Lawson's performances, calling him a "real racer" who is not afraid to compete with the best. The Guardian reported on Perez's struggles, stating he finished 285 points behind Verstappen, which ultimately led to his departure. This sentiment was echoed by multiple sources, indicating a consensus on the necessity for change within the team.
How we got here
Sergio Perez's departure from Red Bull follows a lackluster 2024 season, where he finished eighth in the drivers' standings. Lawson's promotion comes after he impressed during his stints with the sister team, while Hadjar's rise reflects Red Bull's commitment to nurturing young talent.
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