Liam Lawson picks Max Verstappen’s ‘controversial’ 2021 Abu Dhabi triumph as best race in F1

Liam Lawson didn't hesitate to pick Max Verstappen's controversial 2021 Abu Dhabi victory as his favorite race in Formula 1.


Liam Lawson picks Max Verstappen’s ‘controversial’ 2021 Abu Dhabi triumph as best race in F1

Max Verstappen and Liam Lawson (via Getty Images)

Liam Lawson received the opportunity to finally race a full season in Formula 1 alongside Max Verstappen at Red Bull. The Kiwi driver will go up against one of the best drivers in the pinnacle of motorsport who has won many races in the past. Hence, amongst the plethora of race wins by Verstappen, Lawson picked one to be his favorite.

Liam Lawson didn’t hesitate to point out his favorite race in Formula 1. Lawson reckoned that the decision was tough but declared the highly controversial 2021 Abu Dhabi GP as his favorite race. The 22-year-old accepted that this pick from him was indeed very controversial after Max Verstappen won the race.

Wow that’s really tough… 2021 Abu Dhabi… That’s so controversial, but..

Liam Lawson told ESPN.

Sergio Perez‘s failing performances enabled Lawson to pounce on the opportunity to gain a Red Bull seat for the 2025 season. The Kiwi will have the daunting task of racing against Verstappen as the former reassured that he wasn’t afraid of the challenge. As a result, Milton Keynes will aim to score a turnaround in performance after a disappointing outing in the 2024 season.

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Liam Lawson already ‘under pressure’ before debuting with Red Bull

Liam Lawson is joining Red Bull fresh after the team’s disappointing end to the 2024 season. Hence, the Kiwi will have to match Verstappen’s performance closely in order to be considered for continuation. Speaking upon the debut, Lawson reckoned that he would always be evaluated by the team. Moreover, the 22-year-old highlighted that he would be under pressure due to the performance clause in his contract.

Liam Lawson and Max Verstappen (via Getty Images)
Liam Lawson and Max Verstappen (via Getty Images)

You’re always being evaluated, Especially in your early years in F1, with the way our contracts are [set up] and the way the teams are judging us — we have performance clauses, so we’re always under pressure. You’re never really safe.

Liam Lawson told motorsport.com

Red Bull will have to work hard on their form in order to fare better against the rivals in the 2025 season. The team’s domination in the ground-effect era has seemingly come to an end with the rivals catching up. Hence, the upcoming season will remain unknown for Milton Keynes in terms of performance for at least a few of the initial races.