Liam Lawson once again made a significant mark in his Formula 1 career with a stellar performance at the United States Grand Prix in Austin. Starting from 19th on the grid, the young New Zealander impressively finished in second place, earning crucial points for the Red Bull-backed team in their Constructors’ Championship battle against Haas. This performance has intensified discussions about who will partner with Max Verstappen at Red Bull in 2025, especially given Sergio Pérez’s recent struggles.

The race in Austin was a critical moment for Lawson, who had already demonstrated his potential during his brief stint with the team in 2023. This time, his driving was even more remarkable as he carved his way through the field, executing mature and calculated overtakes that earned him widespread praise. Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko, known for his sharp eye for emerging talent, didn’t hesitate to commend Lawson’s driving, stating that the 22-year-old showed the control and composure reminiscent of an experienced driver. Marko’s admiration came as no surprise, as he has been a strong advocate of giving young drivers a chance, and Lawson’s performance was a prime example of why.

However, this outstanding performance has raised more questions than answers about Red Bull’s driver lineup for 2025. With Pérez once again finishing behind his rivals, including George Russell, who started from the pit lane, and enduring another race in no man’s land, the Mexican driver is now under immense pressure. While Pérez has denied rumors of an imminent retirement, especially ahead of his home race in Mexico, his disappointing performances have put his seat under scrutiny.

Red Bull has been clear that the team needs two high-performing drivers, especially as Ferrari narrows the gap in the Constructors’ Championship. Team principal Christian Horner echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that Lawson’s race in Austin demonstrated exactly what Red Bull expects: a driver who can perform under pressure, execute flawless overtakes, and get the best out of the car. Horner’s praise has added to the speculation that Lawson could be a candidate for the coveted Red Bull seat next season.

Pérez’s struggles were particularly evident in Austin, where Verstappen managed to hold off his rivals and secure third place, while Pérez failed to show the same resilience and finished a distant seventh. This has cast doubts over Pérez’s future, especially as Red Bull needs consistent performances to fend off a resurgent Ferrari team, which claimed victory in Austin and is now only eight points behind in the Constructors’ standings.

Liam Lawson’s impressive race comes at a time when competition within the Red Bull team is heating up. Yuki Tsunoda, another contender for the 2025 seat, has also been showcasing his skills, bolstered by Honda’s push for him to be given a chance in the main team before their partnership with Red Bull concludes. Tsunoda has shown flashes of brilliance, but his inconsistency, highlighted by a spin and an outburst during the Austin race, raises questions about his readiness for the top seat.

Helmut Marko, who had previously expressed confidence in Tsunoda, now faces a dilemma: he must choose between two promising talents. Although Honda’s exit from Red Bull could complicate Tsunoda’s path, the Japanese automaker has made it clear they will continue to support him, even as they begin a new partnership with Aston Martin. According to Honda’s sporting director, Koji Watanabe, they have held discussions with Red Bull on ensuring Tsunoda has a fair chance to showcase his skills, suggesting that the battle for the 2025 lineup is far from over.

For Lawson, the chance to drive for Red Bull is a dream he has pursued since joining their junior program. Despite the challenges of securing a seat, Lawson has focused on improving his performances, recognizing that competing directly with Tsunoda is a realistic goal. Reflecting on his race in Austin, Lawson expressed his satisfaction, stating he hadn’t expected to score points, especially after starting at the back. His strategic approach, particularly in tire management, allowed him to make crucial overtakes, keeping him in contention throughout the race.