Reigning Formula One champion Max Verstappen will have a different teammate in 2025 as Oracle Red Bull Racing brings in a new driver.
The F1 team confirmed the rumors on Thursday by announcing Liam Lawson as its newest driver. The New Zealand native will continue his rise through the racing ranks, a journey that featured a points-scoring finish at Circuit of the Americas this season while driving for Visa Cash App RB F1 Team.
Lawson has made 11 starts in F1 over the last two seasons. He has three points-paying finishes and an average finish of 12.9. He has only failed to finish one Grand Prix.
"To be announced as an Oracle Red Bull Racing Driver is a lifelong dream for me, this is something I've wanted and worked towards since I was eight years old," Lawson said in a statement. "It's been an incredible journey so far.
"I want to say a massive thank you to the whole team at VCARB for their support, the last six races have played a huge part in my preparation for this next step. I also want to thank, Christian (Horner, Oracle Red Bull Team Principal), Helmut (Marko, Red Bull Racing advisor), and the whole Red Bull family for believing in me and giving me this opportunity.
"I am super excited to work alongside Max and learn from a World Champion, I have no doubt I will learn from his expertise. I can't wait to get going!"
Lawson's addition follows the departure of another driver. Sergio Perez and Oracle Red Bull Racing announced on Wednesday that they had reached an agreement to part ways for 2025. This announcement confirmed the long-rumored split.
Perez spent four seasons with Oracle Red Bull Racing (2021-24). He made 90 starts for the team and delivered five wins. He finished second in the standings in 2023 after a two-win season.
Gracias por todo Checo 💙
After four successful seasons together, Sergio Pérez and Oracle Red Bull Racing have reached an agreement to part ways for 2025. pic.twitter.com/NAZFN87aKi
— Oracle Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) December 18, 2024
"I'm incredibly grateful for the past four years with Oracle Red Bull Racing and for the opportunity to race with such an amazing Team," Perez said in a statement. "Driving for Red Bull has been an unforgettable experience and I'll always cherish the successes we achieved together. We broke records, reached remarkable milestones, and I've had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people along the way."