A New Zealander will be Verstappen’s new teammate.

Perez out: This is Verstappen's new teammate

Sergio Perez no longer has a future at Red Bull. Now his successor has been announced.

19 December 2024

From: apa

New Zealander Liam Lawson will be Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen's new teammate at Red Bull next season. The 22-year-old replaces Mexican Sergio Pérez (34), who has to leave the racing team with immediate effect after poor results despite a longer contract.

Like Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen, Lawson was trained in the Red Bull junior program and was already driving for the sister team Racing Bulls at the end of the previous season. He is now taking over the cockpit from Pérez, who only finished eighth in the World Championship last season and was constantly criticized.

Liam Lawson at Alpha Tauri. © APA/afp / PETER PARKS

"It is without doubt an overwhelming task to drive alongside a four-time world champion like Max Verstappen, who is without question one of the greatest drivers in Formula 1 history. But I am sure that Liam will rise to the challenge and deliver outstanding results for us in the coming year," said Red Bull team boss Christian Horner.

Frenchman Isack Hadjar is being discussed as Lawson's successor at the Racing Bulls. The 20-year-old finished second overall in the Formula 2 junior series this year.