Liam Lawson has recounted a specific ‘welcome to F1’ moment during a practice session at the 2023 Dutch Grand Prix, an experience involving Max Verstappen. The New Zealander, currently competing for Racing Bulls, has maintained a presence within the Red Bull system, including recent substitute appearances for the main Red Bull team during the current 2026 season.
Lawson’s competitive Formula 1 debut occurred at the 2023 Dutch Grand Prix, where he was called upon to replace an injured Daniel Ricciardo at AlphaTauri. He stepped into the car from the third free practice session onwards, having had limited preparation time.
During one of these initial practice sessions at Circuit Zandvoort, Lawson found himself on track directly behind Verstappen. This close proximity to the then-reigning world champion provided a direct impression of the speed and intensity at the pinnacle of motorsport. Max Verstappen had topped the first free practice session at the 2023 Dutch Grand Prix.
Lawson’s debut race at Zandvoort was marked by challenging, mixed-weather conditions. He qualified in 20th position, the last on the grid. Despite a 10-second penalty during the race, he managed to finish 13th. He also engaged in a battle with Charles Leclerc and finished ahead of his AlphaTauri teammate, Yuki Tsunoda.
Reflecting on that initial weekend, Lawson described his memories as primarily consisting of ‘fear and pressure’. He stated it was a ‘very tough weekend’ and that he was ‘very relieved to get through it’, viewing it as a survival experience rather than an enjoyable one.
For the current 2026 Formula 1 season, Lawson holds a full-time drive with Racing Bulls, where he partners with Arvid Lindblad. He is contracted to remain with the team until at least the end of this season.
Lawson has also undertaken substitute duties for Red Bull Racing during the 2026 season. He recently replaced an injured Isack Hadjar at the Dutch Grand Prix, securing a seventh-place finish. Furthermore, he recorded the fourth-fastest time in the opening practice session of the 2026 Italian Grand Prix while driving for Red Bull.
His career trajectory included a brief promotion to Red Bull Racing for the 2025 season, where he was set to partner Max Verstappen. However, he was demoted back to Racing Bulls after just two rounds.
Lawson continues to perform for Racing Bulls, scoring points and currently holding a position ahead of his teammate, Lindblad, in the drivers’ standings.
