Liam Lawson acknowledges the immense challenge of returning to the Formula 1 grid mid-season for the final six races of 2024, beginning at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin. The New Zealand driver is stepping in for Daniel Ricciardo at VCARB and aims to impress for a potential full-time seat in 2025.
While Lawson has served as a reserve driver for both Red Bull and VCARB, this opportunity marks his second chance to showcase his talent after filling in for Ricciardo last year. However, Lawson is aware of the difficulties ahead, especially with little track time to acclimate to Austin, a circuit he has never raced on before.
One of the primary challenges Lawson faces is the Sprint weekend format in Austin, which allows him only one hour of practice before jumping into qualifying and racing. This limited time will make it harder for him to adapt to the track, putting him at a disadvantage compared to the regular drivers who have already competed in three-quarters of the season. Despite his extensive simulator work with Red Bull, Lawson admits that nothing compares to actual race experience, and Austin will be a significant test of his readiness.
Lawson expressed confidence in being better prepared this year compared to 2023, having spent the season training intensively and performing tests. However, he acknowledged that the physical and mental demands of racing are different from testing, and regaining race fitness will be a challenge. On top of Austin, Lawson also highlighted the difficulty of racing at other unfamiliar tracks later in the season, such as Las Vegas and Brazil. Though he has some experience at venues like Mexico and Abu Dhabi, he recognizes the uphill battle in mastering new circuits quickly.
Lawson is realistic about the hurdles ahead, admitting that his return to the F1 grid comes with added pressure. His primary goal is to make the most of this limited opportunity and prove himself capable of earning a seat for the 2025 season. The stakes are high as he looks to solidify his place in the Red Bull family, either at the sister team or potentially alongside reigning champion Max Verstappen.
Finally, Lawson expressed his gratitude to those who have supported him throughout his career, from his early racing days to his current pursuit of a full-time Formula 1 seat. For him, the upcoming races represent the culmination of a lifelong dream, and he is determined to overcome the obstacles ahead, using this opportunity as a potential springboard for his future in the sport.
