During the 2023 Dutch Grand Prix weekend, Liam Lawson found himself thrust into Formula 1 under challenging circumstances when Daniel Ricciardo suffered a hand injury in a crash. Called up last-minute to join Red Bull’s sister team AlphaTauri, the young Kiwi driver faced an emotional and intense introduction to the sport. The support and encouragement from four-time world champion Max Verstappen played a crucial role in helping Lawson manage the pressure and excitement on his debut weekend.
Verstappen’s Guidance During Lawson’s First Race Weekend
Lawson’s entry was far from typical, with barely any preparation time before stepping into the cockpit. Despite this, he delivered a solid performance, finishing 13th and ahead of his teammate Yuki Tsunoda, signaling potential for a full-time Formula 1 career. Reflecting on that first race weekend, Lawson remembered Verstappen’s advice that helped him focus through the overwhelming emotions.
“He basically just gave me some advice on trying to enjoy it and remember that it’s what we’ve all worked our whole lives to get to. To hear that from him was something I didn’t expect, and something I appreciated a lot at the time.”
—Liam Lawson, F1 Driver
Racing Experiences and Continued Growth After 2023
Following his debut, Lawson raced in a total of five events replacing Ricciardo until the latter’s recovery. His progress was highlighted by scoring his first F1 points with a ninth-place finish in Singapore. However, Lawson’s journey since has included several ups and downs, including being dropped and reinstated between Red Bull’s main team and AlphaTauri. His stint has involved stepping in for Sergio Perez at the start of 2025 and then shifting back, but Verstappen’s initial support remains a positive memory for the driver.
Significance of Verstappen’s Mentorship in Lawson’s Career
Max Verstappen’s encouragement during Lawson’s debut weekend exemplifies the importance of experienced drivers guiding newcomers in the demanding environment of Formula 1. This support not only helped Lawson stay composed during a challenging moment but also contributed to his resilience and determination throughout his fluctuating career. As Lawson continues to navigate his path in F1, Verstappen’s example as a mentor highlights the teamwork and camaraderie within Red Bull’s racing units, suggesting these relationships will remain vital for future talent development.