F1 news: Liam Lawson's x-rated response after Daniel Ricciardo Red Bull battle revealed

Liam Lawson at AlphaTauri in 2023 — Photo: © IMAGO

F1 Drive to Survive

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Lawson's x-rated response after Ricciardo Red Bull battle revealed

Liam Lawson’s defiant response to being denied an F1 seat in Red Bull family

Shay Rogers

Sunday 3 March 2024 21:55

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Liam Lawson has vented his frustrations after being denied a full-time Formula 1 drive within the Red Bull family in 2024.

The Kiwi driver filled in for an injured Daniel Ricciardo at the end of last year after he broke his hand at the Dutch Grand Prix.

His performances sparked conversations right away about a permanent role at AlphaTauri – now VCARB, after he scored points for them.

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But the team decided to retain Daniel Ricciardo – opting for experience in the role as they kicked off a new era in Faenza.

Liam Lawson drove five races for AlphaTauri

Helmut Marko helps to oversee Red Bull's talent

Lawson fury at lack of drive

Speaking in season six of Netflix’s Drive to Survive, Lawson shared his feelings after being overlooked for a promotion.

“It’s tough knowing that I don’t get the seat even though I’ve beaten a guy that’s getting a seat,” he said.

“I don’t know how to f***ing answer that honestly because it’s meant to be me, so… Obviously it’s frustrating. There’s a lot of things going on to be honest. I think emotionally and mentally, pretty draining yeah.

“But to be honest, it’s been hard to actually enjoy it. Until I have that security or having that contract for a full-time seat, it’s hard to really enjoy it.”

Lawson is now a reserve driver for Red Bull and could still be within a shout of an F1 seat in 2025, but it’s clear that he deserved a shot before he will get one.

There are plenty of expiring contracts elsewhere on the grid meaning that the Kiwi could explore avenues outside of the Red Bull family in the future.