The Red Bull rookie faced a tough qualifying session for the Chinese Grand Prix, securing the last spot on the grid for Sunday’s race.
Red Bull Racing Formula One driver Liam Lawson secured the 20th spot in the Chinese Grand Prix qualifying and will thus start last in the race at the Shanghai International Circuit. Lawson admitted that he does not have much time to adapt to the car and he must soon prove his racing prowess.
Lawson was selected for the Red Bull seat following the 2024 season after being assessed alongside Racing Bulls driver Yuki Tsunoda. He replaced Sergio Perez at Red Bull, who was ousted for underperformance.
The Kiwi driver’s qualifying performance stood in stark contrast to his teammate Max Verstappen, who secured fourth on the grid for Sunday’s Grand Prix. Lawson also started last in the Chinese GP sprint race but recovered to finish 14th. However, he admitted that the race result was far from satisfactory, especially since he is driving a Red Bull. He told the media after qualifying:
“You know, it’s great that we’re moving forward, but I’m in a Red Bull, you know, so finishing 14th, it’s not really acceptable, and obviously I try and move further forward tomorrow, but right now this is more of a priority.
