Liam Lawson Eyes Bathurst 1000 Amidst F1 Future Uncertainty

Liam Lawson, currently battling for his Formula 1 future, has expressed a strong desire to compete in the prestigious Bathurst 1000. With F1 on a break, Lawson is enjoying this weekend's 'Great Race' at Mount Panorama, a track he previously called "the coolest thing I’ve ever done" after a 2023 F1 show run.

Why it matters:

Lawson's public ambition to race in Supercars' marquee event comes as his F1 career hangs in the balance, highlighting a potential alternative path or passion project should he not secure a permanent seat. It also underscores his deep love for motorsport beyond the F1 paddock, resonating with fans who appreciate drivers exploring different racing disciplines.

The Details:

• F1 Uncertainty: Lawson's spot at Racing Bulls is under threat, with Arvid Lindblad being considered for a seat. While teammate Isack Hadjar is reportedly set for Red Bull's main team, Lawson's future remains unconfirmed.
• Bathurst Ambition: Following his thrilling experience driving an F1 car at Mount Panorama in 2023, Lawson told Speedcafe he "definitely" wants to race there officially, even as a co-driver.
• Childhood Connection: Lawson's interest in motorsport began thanks to childhood friend Matt Payne, who is competing in this year's Bathurst 1000 for Grove Racing. Payne, who is having a strong 2025 Supercars season sitting second in the championship, qualified P18 for the race.
• Recent F1 Performance: Lawson finished P15 at the recent Singapore Grand Prix, a round he described as arguably his worst career performance, adding to the pressure on his F1 prospects.

The Big Picture:

Red Bull's junior driver pool is notoriously competitive, and securing a long-term F1 seat is a monumental challenge. While Lawson has demonstrated flashes of potential, the consistent pressure to perform and the availability of other talented drivers mean his position is far from secure. His openness to other top-tier racing categories like Supercars could signal a pragmatic approach to his career, ensuring he remains in high-level motorsport even if F1 doesn't work out as hoped.

What's next:

Lawson's immediate focus will shift back to F1 with the upcoming United States Grand Prix in Austin. Strong performances in the remaining races will be crucial to sway Red Bull's decision-makers regarding his 2025 F1 future. Meanwhile, the Bathurst 1000 will continue to be a dream for Lawson, potentially for a future beyond F1 or during a potential off-season opportunity.