Liam Lawson Reveals He Deleted Social Media After Horrific F1 Online Abuse

Liam Lawson has revealed the toxic reality of modern Formula 1 fandom, saying he deleted his social media apps and muted every F1-related account after being targeted with horrific online abuse. The New Zealander, who was promoted to Red Bull for 2025 and demoted after two races, pinpointed his 2024 Mexico City clash with Sergio Perez as the moment the abuse became unbearable.

Why it matters:

Formula 1 drivers face immense pressure, but Lawson's experience exposes how social media has amplified fan toxicity into a direct mental health threat. His decision to disconnect entirely underscores the severity of abuse young drivers face during high-stakes team changes and on-track rivalries.

The details:

• Lawson joined Racing Bulls to replace Daniel Ricciardo in late 2024, earned a Red Bull seat for 2025, and was dropped for Yuki Tsunoda after just two races.
• On the High Performance podcast, Lawson said his Mexico clash with Perez triggered an avalanche of hateful comments and direct messages across Instagram.
• The abuse was so severe that Lawson deleted social media apps for the rest of the season, a move he says significantly improved his mental wellbeing.
• He now keeps every F1 account muted, explaining that ignoring the constant swirl of rumors and untrue narratives is essential to staying focused.

What's next:

Lawson's remarks add to a growing paddock conversation about the mental toll of online abuse in motorsport. While he continues to rebuild his racing career, his experience is a stark reminder that the battle for young talent in F1 is increasingly fought off the track as well as on it.