Lawson reflects on tough season as Racing Bulls clinch P6 constructors' finish

Liam Lawson concluded his turbulent 2025 season with an 18th-place finish in Abu Dhabi, but found solace in Racing Bulls' successful battle for sixth in the constructors' standings - achieved by a three-point margin over Aston Martin. The New Zealander described his final race as 'tough' with compromised strategy and pace, though the team celebrated its historic championship position.

Why it matters:

The P6 finish represents Racing Bulls' most successful season since becoming a standalone entity, validating their development trajectory amid intense midfield competition. For Lawson personally, securing continued employment through 2026 provides crucial stability after the psychological blow of Red Bull terminating his drive after just two races this season.

The details:

• Lawson's race unfolded as a defensive effort against Aston Martin's Lance Stroll, resulting in a five-second penalty for a late defensive move - a sanction also given to Stroll and Oliver Bearman for separate incidents.
• The Kiwi acknowledged his error: 'I moved quite late, so it was probably my bad. It wasn't intentional.'
• Midfield struggles: Despite briefly battling new world champion Lando Norris, Lawson admitted being powerless with 'cooked tyres' as Racing Bulls' pace deficit became apparent.
• Team milestone: Sixth place equals the franchise's best championship result (previously achieved in 2023 as AlphaTauri), with team principal Alan Permane calling it 'a huge achievement' after 'ups and downs all the way through'.
• Historic points tally: Lawson finished 14th in drivers' standings with 38 points - the highest by a New Zealander in 50 years and third-best Kiwi total in F1 history.

What's next:

Lawson now turns his focus to processing a season marked by professional whiplash while preparing for his full-time Racing Bulls role in 2026.

• The driver admitted needing time to reflect on Red Bull's mid-season decision: 'It was a very difficult period. I'll learn from it, but surviving this year and having another opportunity next year was the main target.'
• Racing Bulls enters winter with momentum from its constructors' result, though significant car development remains crucial to challenge the midfield leaders.
• Lawson's experience navigating both extreme pressure and team politics could prove valuable as he aims to convert his points-scoring potential into consistent top-10 finishes next season.