Quite recently, Sky pundit and ex-F1 driver Karun Chandhok spurred a bizarre theory, reckoning drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen set the bar too high for rookies to shine in their debut campaigns. And of course, the likes of Mick Schumacher, Logan Sargeant, and many others are enduring similar fate thus far in the cut-throat sport. However, in the midst of such a competitive world stood AlphaTauri’s one-off rookie Liam Lawson.
The New Zealander made an unexpected Formula 1 debut, earlier this year at the Dutch Grand Prix, replacing an injured Daniel Ricciardo. And, quite unsurprisingly, expectations weren’t necessarily high for Lawson, a rookie without experience and preparation. However, to everyone’s shock, it is the very underestimated young Kiwi who ultimately managed to earn AlphaTauri its best-ever finishing position of the season.
🚨 | Liam Lawson is expected to stay on the SIDELINES in 2024.
Red Bull will reportedly keep Lawson as an option for the 2025 season.
[@jeppe_olesen] pic.twitter.com/SucgnKYP7t
— formularacers (@formularacers_) September 19, 2023
In only his third race since debut, Lawson defied the odds and fought his way through the pack to clinch an impeccable P9 at the Singapore Grand Prix. Subsequently, Helmut Marko, in an interview, publicly admitted that Red Bull is seeking an immediate solution for Lawson after a performance-based evaluation.
It almost sounded like the Austrian talent hunter was hoping to find a permanent seat for Lawson. And the more practical scenario? Yuki Tsunoda or Daniel Ricciardo moves to Red Bull as a reserve driver while Lawson lines up alongside either of the drivers at AlphaTauri. But, what’s shocking is that Red Bull has decided to keep the supremely talented New Zealander on the sidelines for 2024.
Liam Lawson out of contention for 2024 F1 seat amidst latest Red Bull decision
While it seemed like Lawson might at least find a seat alongside Alex Albon at Williams, the reality is that Lawson will remain AlphaTauri and Red Bull’s reserve driver for 2024. As expected, the fans aren’t really pleased with the growing theory and are now demanding the sacking of Ricciardo.
One fan opined that the very purpose of Formula 1 would be demolished if Lawson finds himself out of contention for a 2024 seat. “If Lawson is seatless for next season then this sport is officially finished,” the X user wrote.
helmut marko is not a serious individual if he’s genuinely considering ricciardo over lawson after yesterday https://t.co/lmeqUaSeZt
— sarah !! 💙 (@logiesargeant) September 18, 2023
I’ll be rebranding myself as a Daniel Ricciardo hate account for 2024 if Liam Lawson doesn’t get an F1 seat next season
— CFCDan (@DannCFC21) September 19, 2023
Overall, this is undeniably disappointing news for Lawson, the mere rookie who put up an incredible fight against both Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez at the Singapore Grand Prix. Hence, will justice be provided for the rapidly evolving Red Bull junior and potential championship material Lawson? Let’s hope he does in the near future.
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