Liam Lawson Returns to Red Bull Cockpit for 'Very Raw' V8 Supercar Test

Liam Lawson recently traded his F1 cockpit for the seat of a Red Bull V8 Supercar at Highlands Motorsport Park in his native New Zealand. The RB driver, who has a new contract for 2024, described the experience of driving the Bathurst-winning car as 'very raw,' praising its lack of driver assists and engaging nature. The test offered a fun off-season diversion for the young Kiwi as he prepares for his full-time return to the F1 grid.

Why it matters:

While a V8 Supercar test doesn't directly impact his F1 performance, the outing highlights Lawson's passion for racing and keeps him connected to his roots. Driving powerful, analog machines like this can sharpen a driver's car control and feel, providing valuable experience that translates across different motorsport disciplines. It also serves as a strong PR move, reinforcing his status as a Red Bull athlete and a hero in his home nation of New Zealand.

The details:

• Lawson drove the Triple Eight Race Engineering Red Bull Holden ZB Commodore, the same chassis compatriot Shane van Gisbergen used to win the 2023 Bathurst 1000.
• He described the car as "the most raw car to drive," highlighting its analog nature.
• Key features he noted were the "big sequential shifter," "three pedals," and complete lack of driver assists.
• The New Zealander was clearly impressed, calling it "such a fun car to drive" and "very loud, sick around this track."

What's next:

This V8 Supercar run is a fun side-quest for Lawson, whose primary focus remains on the 2024 Formula 1 season. After a brief two-race cameo with the senior Red Bull team, he has secured a full-time seat with RB, aiming to establish himself as a regular points scorer and potential future Red Bull driver. Fans will be watching to see if the 'raw' experience in New Zealand translates into a polished performance on the F1 grid.