Verstappen F1 team-mate CONFIRMED as Red Bull announce major driver signing

Red Bull Racing have confirmed who will be driving alongside four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen in 2025 in an official team statement.

After huge speculation surrounding his future with the team, news broke on Wednesday that Red Bull and Mexican star Sergio Perez had decided to part ways ahead of the new season.

F1 HEADLINES: Ricciardo announces WEDDING plans as star issues emotional statement

READ MORE: Red Bull confirm Perez REPLACEMENT with official team statement

2024 was a real struggle for the 34-year-old, who finished 285 points behind his championship-winning team-mate and contributed greatly to the team's downfall in the constructors' championship.

So much so that despite having signed a contract extension just six months ago, Perez will now take a sabbatical from F1.

Who will replace Sergio Perez?

Following the Perez news, the question many have been pondering is who will replace him at Red Bull, with multiple candidates for the vacancy.

Now, Red Bull have put any speculation to bed with an official announcement confirming a promotion for Liam Lawson.

"Oracle Red Bull Racing is pleased to announce that Liam Lawson will complete the Team's driver line-up for the 2025 FIA Formula One World Championship, moving across from Visa Cash App RB to partner four-time World Champion Max Verstappen," a team statement read.

Speaking as part of the team statement, Lawson confessed it was a dream come true to be named a Red Bull driver.

"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," the Kiwi explained.

READ MORE: Ricciardo issues WARNING amid Verstappen row

"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.

"I also want to thank, Christian, Helmut and the whole Red Bull family for believing in me and giving me this opportunity.

"I am super excited to work alongside Max and learn from a World Champion, I have no doubt I will learn from his expertise. I can’t wait to get going!"

Lawson's move to Red Bull does leave a vacancy remaining at VCARB heading into 2025. It is yet to be confirmed who will take that seat.

READ MORE: Perez confirms Red Bull AXE in official statement

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