(Motorsports news) Over the Suzuka weekend, the Faenza team confirmed that Yuki Tsunoda will be joined by Daniel Ricciardo next year, with Lawson serving as reserve for both Red Bull teams. Japan was Ricciardo’s fourth race since suffering a hand injury at Zandvoort. While the latter is expected to return for the following race in Qatar, Lawson might receive a fifth race in the AT04 if it is determined that Ricciardo need further rest.
“I think, to be honest, I haven’t thought about it too much,” Lawson remarked when questioned about the impact of the lineup confirmation. “Right now, I think I’m focused on making the most of this opportunity. Obviously, my ultimate goal is to be in F1, and the best way to achieve that is to put in the best performance possible in these races.” So perhaps I’ll think about it later!
“I think obviously the support has been amazing, it’s great to see the support from everybody, from New Zealand, from everywhere around the world, to be honest.” He dismissed the notion that he was under any pressure to prove Red Bull’s management wrong. “I don’t think so,” he responded. “One of the benefits of being a Red Bull driver for me, after five years in this program, is that it’s a high-pressure environment.”
“We’re put under pressure from day one, and I’m used to it after five years.” So I’m prepared for scenarios like these. “Honestly, right now I’m trying to just do the best job in these races that I can, I think once the stint that I have is over, then I can start looking at potentially how I’ve done, and what options there are, but right now I’m focused on these races.”
“I’m a Red Bull driver, all the Red Bull seats are filled, and unfortunately that means for now I’ll be a reserve driver,” Lawson said, dismissing the possibility that he may still land a racing drive somewhere, with Williams yet to confirm who will partner Alex Albon.
Christian Horner, CEO of Red Bull, stated that Lawson is very much on the radar. “It’s only a matter of time before he gets his opportunity and full-time chance,” he stated on Sky F1. “Having three of them there is extremely beneficial to the group. I think he certainly turned heads and gave us a lot to think about, especially after his Singapore drive.”
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