Liam Lawson has been officially confirmed as Red Bull's driver for 2025. Valtteri Bottas returns to Mercedes after three years.
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| Photo: Mark Thompson |
Liam Lawson will replace Perez at Red Bull next year. The youngster, who has never raced a full season in Formula 1, will face four-time world champion Max Verstappen next year. In the past, drivers such as Pierre Gasly, Alexander Albon and Sergio Perez have failed in this position and it will be a tough test for Lawson and his abilities.
Christian Horner said:
"Liam’s performances over the course of his two stints with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls have demonstrated that he’s not only capable of delivering strong results, but that he’s also a real racer, not afraid to mix it with the best and come out on top.
“There’s no doubt that racing alongside Max, a four-time champion and undoubtedly one of the greatest drivers ever seen in F1, is a daunting task, but I’m sure Liam can rise to that challenge and deliver some outstanding results for us next year.”
Liam Lawson said:
"To be announced as an Oracle Red Bull Racing driver is a lifelong dream for me, this is something I’ve wanted and worked towards since I was eight years old.
“It’s been an incredible journey so far. I want to say a massive thank you to the whole team at VCARB for their support, the last six races have played a huge part in my preparation for this next step."
Valterri Bottas to Mercedes
Today it was also announced that Bottas will return to Mercedes, although this is not a racing seat but a reserve driver position.
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| Photo: Daimler AG |
Valtteri said:
“Returning home to the Mercedes family as third driver for 2025 is what’s next and I couldn’t be more pleased. I want to thank Toto, the team at Brackley, and everyone at the three-pointed star for welcoming me back with open arms.
"I’m looking forward to using all the knowledge I’ve gained to help the team to perform and progress towards our goal of fighting for world championships.”