Liam Lawson has officially been confirmed as Red Bull’s second driver for the 2025, edging out Yuki Tsunoda for the vacant seat alongside Max Verstappen, after the team decided to drop Sergio Perez.

The announcement marks a significant milestone for the 22-year-old New Zealander, who has impressed during his reserve and substitute stints with Red Bull and RB (former AlphaTauri).

Lawson first stepped into the spotlight last season when he replaced Daniel Ricciardo at AlphaTauri after the Australian suffered a hand injury.

He then stepped in full-time following this year’s Singapore Grand Prix, showcasing his talent across several races. Despite limited opportunities, Lawson scored points on two occasions and even had notable battles with seasoned drivers, including Sergio Perez in Mexico.

While Tsunoda has outqualified Lawson in most of their head-to-head sessions and scored twice as many points, Red Bull ultimately favored Lawson’s potential and adaptability.

VCARB has yet to announce who will replace Lawson on the team, but Isack Hadjar, this year's F2 runner-up, is expected to be the one to take the seat next to Tsunoda.

A team statement read: “Red Bull Racing is pleased to announce that Liam Lawson will complete the team’s driver line-up for the 2025 FIA Formula One World Championship, moving across from Racing Bulls to partner four-time world champion Max Verstappen. 

“New Zealand native Liam joined the Red Bull Junior Programme in 2019 and after multiple junior formula successes made his F1 debut with AlphaTauri at the 2023 Dutch Grand Prix, in place of the injured Daniel Ricciardo. 

“He scored his first championship points in just his second outing at the Singapore GP and completed five races in all for the team. 

“After taking up his reserve driver role with both teams at the start of 2024, Liam returned to grand prix racing with Racing Bulls with a points-scoring finish at this year’s United States Grand Prix. 

“Now, after completing the season with VCARB the 22-year-old takes the next step in his career with a seat at Red Bull Racing.”