Liam Lawson Dismisses 'Downbeat' Tag After Red Bull Demotion, Team Boss Disagrees
Why it matters: Liam Lawson's recent performance struggles at Red Bull and subsequent return to Racing Bulls have sparked debate over his mental state, with his new team boss offering a contrasting view.
The backdrop: Lawson was briefly promoted to Red Bull Racing for F1 2025 but was swiftly returned to Racing Bulls after just two challenging race weekends in the RB21.
- Then-Red Bull boss Christian Horner stated the decision was to "protect and develop Liam" due to his struggles.
Lawson's take: Despite widespread speculation, Lawson firmly denies any hit to his confidence, asserting his mental state remained unchanged.
- "It's been very heavily speculated that my confidence took a hit... which is completely false," Lawson stated.
- He felt he needed time to adjust to the car and the team, which he wasn't given amidst early season issues.
- Lawson maintained his focus was always on fixing issues and learning.
Permane's perspective: Racing Bulls team boss Alan Permane, however, suggests Lawson was "a bit downbeat" and required support after his Red Bull stint.
- "He didn't have a spring in his step, and we've done what we can to help him there," Permane commented.
- Permane noted Lawson's tough introduction to the VCARB02 without testing, facing a strong teammate like Isack Hadjar.
- A new front suspension introduced in Austria marked a turning point, with Lawson regaining his "spring in his step" by Austria and Spa.
The bigger picture: Racing Bulls CEO Peter Bayer also previously described Lawson as "puzzled and a bit sad" after the team switch, though he now sees Lawson as "fun, happy, like in his best days."
What's next: Lawson acknowledges that others will form their own opinions but reiterates his self-belief. His recent point-scoring performances in the VCARB02, closing the gap to Hadjar, demonstrate his current form and focus.