OCT 01, V7N - Liam Lawson, the 22-year-old New Zealand racing driver, has secured a race seat with Red Bull-owned RB for the remainder of the 2024 Formula One season. This opportunity comes as he replaces Daniel Ricciardo, who is sidelined due to injury. Lawson is set to return to racing at a sprint weekend in Texas on October 20, which marks the beginning of a crucial triple-header that includes races in Mexico and Brazil.

Despite the excitement surrounding his promotion, Lawson is acutely aware of the pressure to perform. He stated, "I’ve been given this opportunity for a reason. But obviously it’s always performance-based." Lawson emphasized that even with a contract, nothing is guaranteed in Formula One, and he must prove himself over the next six races to secure a spot for the following season. "It’s not set in stone, I’m not guaranteed racing next year," he added, highlighting the competitive nature of the sport.

Lawson's journey to this point has been marked by significant support from his family and mentors. He became the 10th Kiwi driver to start a grand prix when he replaced Ricciardo at Zandvoort last year. His parents made considerable sacrifices, including selling their family home, to support his racing ambitions. Lawson expressed that sharing the news of his F1 opportunity with his family was a moment of relief for them, reflecting on the hard work and dedication that has gone into his career.

Looking ahead, Lawson is optimistic about his future in Formula One. He is currently the only confirmed driver for RB alongside his teammate Yuki Tsunoda for the 2025 season, but he understands that his performance in the upcoming races will be critical for his long-term prospects. The team management, including Christian Horner, has indicated that Lawson's future could involve being loaned to another team if necessary, further emphasizing the need for him to showcase his talent in the remaining races.As Lawson prepares for his return to the grid, the upcoming races will be pivotal in determining his place in Formula One and the potential for a more permanent role with Red Bull.

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