Eddie Jordan has expressed strong support for Liam Lawson, suggesting that the young driver has demonstrated enough talent in his recent performances to warrant a replacement for Sergio Perez at Red Bull Racing. After Daniel Ricciardo’s exit from the Red Bull seat following the Singapore Grand Prix, Lawson was brought in for a six-race evaluation period.
Initial expectations were that Lawson would be in contention for a seat with the VCARB team in 2025. However, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner hinted that Lawson’s inclusion in the race lineup could extend beyond VCARB, potentially positioning him as a contender for next season alongside reigning champion Max Verstappen.
Lawson’s recent performances have been impressive, particularly given the challenging circumstances. Despite facing an engine penalty, he managed to score points during the Austin Grand Prix and out-qualified Perez in Mexico. However, his weekend in Mexico was not without incident; a collision with Perez during the race, coupled with a middle-finger gesture directed at his teammate, necessitated an apology from Lawson. Despite this, former driver David Coulthard acknowledged Lawson’s tenacity, noting that the incident showcased his character and willingness to assert himself in a competitive environment.
Jordan was adamant that Lawson is deserving of a spot in the primary Red Bull car, claiming that his current position is beneath his capabilities. He believes that, given the chance, Lawson would excel in a more competitive environment, creating excitement within the team. Jordan emphasized his confidence in Lawson’s potential, urging Red Bull to make a decision regarding his future as they head towards the end of the season. The sentiment suggests that Jordan views Lawson as a significant asset who could deliver exceptional results if placed in the right vehicle.
Coulthard echoed Jordan’s sentiments, acknowledging the ongoing struggles of both Red Bull cars and the mounting pressure on Perez. He hinted that if this trend continues, significant changes may be necessary for the team. While he clarified that he is not privy to insider decisions, Coulthard pointed out that the lack of performance raises concerns that could prompt management to consider alternatives for the 2024 season. The situation highlights the precarious nature of F1 where performance often dictates driver lineups.
The discussions surrounding Lawson and Perez emphasize the high stakes within Red Bull Racing. With Lawson showing promise and the team facing scrutiny over its performance, the possibility of a driver change looms large. Both Jordan and Coulthard’s observations reflect a growing belief that Lawson’s talent could be better utilized in the primary Red Bull car, thereby raising questions about Perez’s future with the team. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Red Bull’s decisions regarding its driver lineup and the potential impact on their championship aspirations.
