Can Liam Lawson be a threat Max Verstappen’s dominance at Red Bull?

Liam Lawson's Red Bull arrival could see Max Verstappen face a real challenge at Red Bull since Daniel Ricciardo's exit in 2018.

Can Liam Lawson be a threat Max Verstappen’s dominance at Red Bull?

Liam Lawson and Max Verstappen (via IMAGO)

Max Verstappen will finally have a new teammate in 2025. 22-year-old Liam Lawson replaces Sergio Perez at Red Bull for next season. The Kiwi driver could make things difficult for the four-time world champion at Milton Keynes.

Since 2019, Verstappen has had it easy when it comes to teammates. Pierre Gasly was sacked after half a season at the Austrian team, while Alex Albon was pushed out after 2020. Sergio Perez‘s arrival in 2021 was a desperate attempt to find a consistent driver to partner the Dutch driver.

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However, Checo failed to live up to expectations and has finally been ousted by Red Bull. Now, a young and coming Liam Lawson might have what it takes to truly push Max Verstappen at Milton Keynes after over half a decade.

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Liam Lawson is no Sergio Perez

Lawson is 22 years old. The Kiwi driver had to wait on the sidelines with two brief F1 stints at VCARB in the past two seasons. Though, Liam Lawson managed to impress Red Bull to such an extent that he got promoted to Milton Keynes for his first full season.

Sergio Perez and Liam Lawson (via Total Motorsport)
Sergio Perez and Liam Lawson (via Total Motorsport)

The Kiwi driver could be seen as Red Bull’s long-term prospect if Max Verstappen retires or switches teams after 2028. As such, Liam Lawson would be looking to make a mark from the get-go against the four-time world champion.

The Austrian team would ensure that the 22-year-old does not create a ruckus against Verstappen at least in the early stages. However, if Lawson can match or outperform the Dutch driver, the dynamics within the team could shift quickly.

It has been a while since Max Verstappen faced a challenge from his teammate. The four-time world champion might need some time to adapt if such a situation does arise. However, Verstappen is much more mature now and understands how to tackle any high pressure situation. As such, the Dutch driver would likely have an upper hand against his new teammate unless Lawson has an outstanding stint in 2025.

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