Sergio Perez admits “I wouldn’t want to be in Liam Lawson’s shoes” after Red Bull exit. Sergio Perez described the challenges awaiting new Red Bull driver Liam Lawson.

The Red Bull lineup change
Among the major changes confirmed and anticipated on the starting grid for the upcoming season is the promotion of Liam Lawson from Racing Bulls to Red Bull, replacing Sergio Perez. The Mexican driver, after a disappointing 2024 in terms of results, had initially been reconfirmed by the Milton Keynes team until 2026 during the last championship. However, he eventually failed to convince the management of the Anglo-Austrian team.

No contract
Having failed to secure a deal with other teams, Checo will spend 2025 away from Formula 1, not only as an official driver but also in reserve roles. This contrasts with Valtteri Bottas, who signed a reserve contract with Mercedes after leaving Sauber. At Red Bull, Max Verstappen will aim for his fifth consecutive world title, a mission that could present serious challenges for his new teammate from New Zealand, who will have to compete against the #1.

What awaits Liam Lawson?
Among those convinced of this is Sergio Perez himself, who knows well the delicate role awaiting a young driver like Liam Lawson, who has only 11 F1 Grands Prix under his belt and therefore limited experience. “It’s an incredible challenge,” Sergio Perez explained to the media. “I knew what I was signing up for when I came here. You can’t underestimate the level of experience, skill, and mental strength required to face such an extreme challenge. Having been Max’s teammate at Red Bull, I wouldn’t want to be in those shoes. People shouldn’t underestimate the level of challenge they’re experiencing.” – the former Formula 1 driver concluded.