Ex-Red Bull driver Alex Albon recently offered rising star Liam Lawson some crucial advice regarding a potential future alongside Max Verstappen. Albon, who had his own turbulent experience at Red Bull Racing, encouraged Lawson to be cautious and strategic about any promotion to the main Red Bull team. Having been a part of Red Bull’s highly competitive environment, Albon’s insights hold particular weight, as he knows firsthand the intense pressure that comes with partnering Verstappen, a two-time world champion known for his skill and relentless approach on the track.
Lawson, a promising young talent in Red Bull’s development program, has caught the eye of the racing world with his impressive performances. He recently stepped in to replace Daniel Ricciardo at AlphaTauri following Ricciardo’s injury, delivering steady results that have sparked discussions about his future. Despite the tempting opportunity to rise quickly, Albon advised Lawson to think carefully before stepping into a high-stakes partnership with Verstappen.
Albon’s warning stems from his own Red Bull journey, where he struggled to adapt to the intense expectations and the need for immediate results. As Verstappen’s teammate, he found himself constantly under scrutiny, with little room for growth or error, a factor that ultimately led to his exit from the team. Albon stressed that Lawson should avoid rushing his progression and instead focus on building his skills at AlphaTauri or another less high-pressure environment within the Red Bull family. This would allow Lawson time to gain experience without the added stress of competing directly against Verstappen, who has a deeply entrenched position within the team.
Albon’s advice underscores the importance of patience and preparation for young drivers entering the F1 spotlight. His perspective offers valuable lessons, not just for Lawson but for other up-and-coming talents in the sport, on the importance of timing and managing one’s career trajectory carefully in a demanding team environment like Red Bull’s.
