Liam Lawson on F1 pressure: 'Nothing can prepare you'

Liam Lawson admits that the pressure of Formula 1 is unlike anything else in motorsport, stating that despite Red Bull's rigorous junior program, nothing truly prepares a driver for the reality of the grid. As he enters his second season alongside rookie Arvid Lindblad, the New Zealander is focused on leveraging his experience to handle the sport's unique demands.

Why it matters:

Lawson’s position within the Red Bull ecosystem remains volatile. After a brief stint with the senior team followed by a demotion, his ability to manage internal pressure and perform consistently is critical for his future. His comments highlight the psychological toll of competing at the highest level, where job security is often tied to immediate results.

The Details:

• Unmatched Pressure: Lawson emphasized that while Red Bull exposes young drivers to high-stakes environments early on, the actual pressure of an F1 seat is "massively different" and impossible to simulate.
• Rookie Teammate: Lawson will be joined by Arvid Lindblad, who steps up from Formula 2. Lawson downplays the added pressure of mentoring a rookie, noting that with new cars, they are tackling the challenge together.
• Resilience: Reflecting on his rookie season, Lawson noted the importance of mental resilience. He explained that the F1 schedule leaves no time to dwell on poor performances, forcing drivers to reset within a day or two.
• Career Trajectory: Lawson started last year with Red Bull Racing but was demoted after two rounds. Despite the setback, he performed well enough to secure his drive for the upcoming campaign.

What's next:

As the team prepares for a new season with new regulations, Lawson aims to translate his hard-learned lessons into on-track consistency. With a year of experience now under his belt, he is better equipped to guide the team's development and navigate the relentless demands of the calendar.