New Zealand Formula One driver Liam Lawson issues statement as ‘cruel sport’ crushes dream

Formula One driver Liam Lawson says his demotion by Red Bull after two races was “tough” but is excited to work with his former team Racing Bulls.

The New Zealander was replaced by Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda in a straight swap between the sister teams after not scoring a point in Australia and China as defending champion Max Verstappen’s new teammate.

“Being a @redbullracing driver has been my dream since I was a kid, it’s what I’ve worked towards my whole life,” the 23-year-old wrote on social media.

Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today

“It’s tough, but I’m grateful for everything that’s brought me to this point. To every one of you who’s stood by me, thank you for all the support it means the world.

“Thank you @visacashapprb for the warm welcome, I’m excited and ready to go to work at one of my favourite places.”

Lawson qualified 18th and failed to finish in Australia before qualifying last for the sprint and race in China.

He will join French rookie Isack Hadjar at Italy-based Racing Bulls where he raced 11 times across 2023-24.

Lawson’s demotion has gone down poorly in New Zealand where pundits and motor racing figures blamed Red Bull for not giving him time to prove himself.

“It’s a cruel sport, but I really don’t think he was given a fair shot IMO,” IndyCar driver and three-time Supercars championship winner Scott McLaughlin said.

Red Bull team boss Christian Horner said Lawson’s replacement was “purely a sporting decision” and Red Bull would support the New Zealander as best they could.

Verstappen, meanwhile, has ‘liked’ an Instagram post by former F1 driver Giedo van der Garde criticising the team for dropping Lawson after just two rounds.

It follows Dutch media reports Verstappen, who has not commented directly, was unhappy with the decision.

Lawson’s demotion means Verstappen will have his third teammate in four races in the third round in Suzuka, Japan, on April 6.

Verstappen’s Dutch compatriot van der Garde, who raced 19 times for now-defunct Caterham in 2013, said he was “getting a bit tired of” the narrative of drivers having to deliver under pressure or face the consequences.

“Yes, you gotta perform. Yes, the pressure is insane. But in my opinion this comes closer to bullying or a panic move than actual high athlete achievements,” he said.

“They made a decision – fully aware – gave Liam two races only to crush his spirit.

“Don’t forget the dedication, hard work and success Liam has put in his career so far to achieve the level where he is now … yes, he underperformed the first two races, but if anyone’s aware of that it’s himself.”

Van der Garde urged Lawson to “trust yourself, get your head up, prove them wrong.”