Daniel Ricciardo's F1 replacement pressure revealed amid SHOCK Red Bull signing

Lawson, Ricciardo, socials — Photo: © IMAGO

Red Bull

Ricciardo replacement pressure revealed amid SHOCK Red Bull signing

He's got a big task ahead of him

Simmey Hannifin Donaldson F1 Editor

Motorsport journalist covering F1 since 2024

Tuesday 14 January 2025 21:51

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Daniel Ricciardo's Formula 1 replacement Liam Lawson is under big pressure to deliver quickly at Red Bull, it has been claimed.

It has been a whirlwind few months for the Kiwi driver, who, back in September, did not even have a seat in the sport, simply having to put up with a reserve driver role at Red Bull.

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Since then, however, he has not only replaced Daniel Ricciardo at Visa Cash App RB for the end of the 2024 season, but also Sergio Perez at the main Red Bull team.

Following a dismal 2024, Perez lost his seat alongside Max Verstappen, and Lawson is the man set to step in as Red Bull look to get back to the top in the constructors' championship this campaign.

Sergio Perez will not be driving alongside Max Verstappen in 2024

Liam Lawson is set to partner the reigning world champion in 2025

Click here to celebrate Ricciardo's time in F1 and purchase the relaxed McLaren graphic tee, featuring his signature driver number, '3'.

Liam Lawson under pressure at Red Bull

Given that Lawson has completed just 11 grands prix, the promotion to Red Bull comes at a very early stage in his career, particularly considering that Yuki Tsunoda has completed four seasons at Red Bull's junior team.

Former Red Bull star David Coulthard is backing the Kiwi, however, and states that whilst there is pressure on Lawson, he has also been handed a fantastic opportunity.

"It is a big opportunity for Liam Lawson and a big pressure," Coulthard explained on the Formula For Success podcast.

Christian Horner has put his faith in Lawson to keep up with the four-time champion

"But as I've said before, pressure is when you feel you're not in control. Right now, Liam will feel pretty confident. He's had a good debut alongside Yuki.

"Whether he carries that confidence into being able to match Max or not, remains to be seen. But the steering wheel is very much in his hands."

Lawson's move to Red Bull meant there was also a promotion for another Red Bull junior this season.

Isack Hadjar has taken Lawson's place at VCARB, and will partner Tsunoda for the 2025 season.