Kiwi star Liam Lawson reveals timeline on when Sergio Perez replacement decision will be made at Red Bull
Kiwi Formula One driver Liam Lawson has suggested a decision is imminent surrounding Sergio Perez’ clouded future at Red Bull.
Lawson, 22, who replaced Aussie Daniel Ricciardo at Visa RB in September, is preparing for this weekend’s season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
His future remains up in the air, with speculation the New Zealand born star could usurp Perez and be teamed with Max Verstappen in 2025.
‘I think next week would be a time I’d expect to have some information,’ Lawson told reporters on Friday when quizzed on his future.
‘What I’m focused on is having a seat. This weekend [Abu Dhabi] is my last chance to show that, and why I feel like I should be here.
‘I feel like I’ve made the most of each opportunity, but I definitely didn’t execute everything perfectly, and there’s stuff that I’ll learn from reflecting on these races.
‘I would say I definitely tried and gave my best at every opportunity. Every decision, whatever I did at the time felt like the best thing for me to do, but obviously you never do the perfect race.’
According to multiple reports, Perez, 34, won’t be a Red Bull driver beyond this year after just four podium finishes in 2024.
Kiwi F1 driver Liam Lawson has suggested a decision is imminent surrounding Sergio Perez’ clouded future at Red Bull
Sergio Perez has endured a tough year, with just four podium finishes in 2024 for Red Bull
If Lawson is given the opportunity to work closely with four-time drivers championship winner Verstappen, he will be elated.
‘I do feel like if the opportunity one day came to go to Red Bull, I feel ready for it,’ he added.
‘I think I would relish the opportunity to go up against [Max Verstappen] if I ever got that opportunity. You get to learn from the best guy.’
Lawson’s Visa RB teammate Yuki Tsunoda is also said to be eyeing off a move to Red Bull.
Heading into Sunday’s season finale, Aussie Oscar Piastri sits in fourth spot in the standings.
The McLaren driver, 23, has been impressive, chalking up two wins and eight podium finishes.
The race in Abu Dhabi is scheduled to begin at 12:00am AEDT on Monday, December 9, with drivers to complete 58 laps around the Yas Marina Circuit.
