Mekies Suggests Liam Lawson Could Be Awarded F1 Seat in the Near Future
Liam Lawson’s path to a full-time Formula 1 seat may soon reach its long-awaited destination. According to Racing Bulls team principal Laurent Mekies, the New Zealand talent is very much in the frame for a promotion—fueling speculation that Lawson’s time as a reserve driver may be coming to an end.
The Long Road to Recognition
Liam Lawson has been a prominent name within the Red Bull driver development system for several years. Known for his adaptability, calm under pressure, and maturity beyond his age, Lawson was thrust into the spotlight in 2023 when he replaced an injured Daniel Ricciardo at AlphaTauri (now Racing Bulls) for five Grands Prix.
Despite minimal preparation, Lawson performed admirably—most notably scoring points in Singapore and showing strong pace in wet and dry conditions alike. Many felt his performances were good enough to earn a permanent race seat in 2024.
But that wasn’t to be.
Red Bull opted to retain Ricciardo and Yuki Tsunoda at their junior team, leaving Lawson to resume reserve duties for both Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls in 2024. It was a tough pill to swallow—but Lawson has remained patient.
Mekies Opens the Door
Now, Laurent Mekies has given the clearest indication yet that Lawson’s break may be imminent.
“Liam is an extraordinary talent. What he showed in 2023 proved his readiness. If the opportunity arises, he will absolutely be considered for a race seat,” Mekies said in a recent media briefing.
He added:
“We are committed to developing the best drivers from within our structure. That includes keeping close tabs on Liam’s progress, both in the simulator and in testing programs. His future is very much part of our planning discussions.”
These comments suggest that Racing Bulls—and by extension, Red Bull—view Lawson as more than just a backup. He is now seen as a legitimate candidate for a full-time drive in 2025, or possibly sooner depending on how the current season unfolds.
What Could Trigger Lawson’s Promotion?
While both Tsunoda and Ricciardo are under contract for 2024, their performances are under constant review. Racing Bulls is no stranger to mid-season driver changes—especially if Red Bull sees a strategic benefit in testing new talent.
Several scenarios could open the door for Lawson:
- Underperformance: If either Tsunoda or Ricciardo fails to meet expectations, a mid-season swap is not off the table—particularly if Red Bull wants to evaluate Lawson ahead of 2025.
- Red Bull reshuffle: Should Sergio Pérez leave or be replaced at Red Bull Racing, Ricciardo could be promoted, leaving Lawson to step into the vacant RB seat.
- Injury or unforeseen absence: As he proved in 2023, Lawson is the go-to driver when sudden substitutions are needed—and he delivers under pressure.
Red Bull’s Long-Term Vision
Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s motorsport advisor, has long been a fan of Lawson’s potential. He’s stated previously that Lawson has the mentality and work ethic suited to top-level racing, and Mekies’ comments appear to reinforce that belief.
The Red Bull camp is known for rotating young drivers aggressively. Lawson’s ability to perform at short notice, coupled with his technical feedback and composure, makes him an ideal candidate for a system that demands instant impact.
With Red Bull eyeing the future—especially with regulation changes coming in 2026—placing Lawson in a seat now would be a strategic investment in long-term success.
Lawson’s Perspective
Liam Lawson has remained impressively composed throughout the uncertainty. While disappointed not to secure a full-time seat in 2024, he’s made it clear he intends to stay ready.
“I’ve done everything I can. If and when the call comes, I’ll be ready,” he said earlier this season.
“Right now, I’m focusing on doing my job as reserve and helping the team however I can. But of course, I want to race.”
His mature mindset and quiet confidence have earned him admiration across the paddock.
Conclusion: A Seat Within Reach
Laurent Mekies’ recent remarks may not be an official confirmation—but they are the strongest signal yet that Liam Lawson is no longer just a reserve driver waiting in the shadows. He is a future F1 star waiting for the right door to open.
And that door may swing open sooner than anyone expected.
If Racing Bulls—and Red Bull—are serious about rewarding performance, investing in youth, and preparing for the next generation, then Lawson’s name should be written in pen, not pencil.
The grid may soon see the return of the quiet Kiwi who let his driving do the talking.