Lawson Navigates Pressure in Challenging Formula 1 Season

New Zealand driver Liam Lawson has faced significant challenges during his debut season in Formula 1 in 2025. After being promoted to the top team of Red Bull Racing, Lawson’s stint lasted only two races before he was reassigned to the junior Racing Bulls team. This transition marked the beginning of a tumultuous season characterized by ups and downs.

Lawson, 23, entered the season with high expectations but quickly learned that the pressures of elite motorsport extend beyond the racetrack. “We get introduced to it in Formula 2, though it is nowhere near the level of Formula 1,” Lawson explained in a recent interview. “The main thing with Formula 1 is the longer you spend in it, the more you get used to it.”

Support Network Essential for Coping

The mental aspect of competing at this level is often cited as one of the most demanding challenges. Lawson emphasized the importance of surrounding himself with supportive individuals. “The pressure and noise can be overwhelming. I try to keep good people around me, people that I trust,” he said. This support system has included a performance coach, whom he has worked with since moving to Europe at the age of 16.

Despite the external pressures from the media and speculation about his future, Lawson is focused on maintaining a clear mindset. “The mental side of Formula 1 is maybe the hardest part,” he acknowledged. “Trying to perform under pressure is something we spend a lot of time focusing on.”

Lawson’s current team, Racing Bulls, sits in seventh place in the constructors’ standings. He believes that achieving consistency is vital for the team’s success. “To catch Williams and be P5 in the constructors’ championship would be a massive result for this team,” he noted. As of now, Lawson has accumulated 20 points and ranks 15th in the driver’s standings.

Looking Ahead to Azerbaijan

As Lawson prepares for the upcoming round in Azerbaijan, he understands the importance of securing a top ten finish to silence critics. He has experienced two consecutive races without scoring points and is determined to break that streak. “There is so much talk and rumors in the sport. I’m trying to block out as much of the noise as possible and focus on the driving,” he stated.

In a sport where performance is scrutinized weekly, Lawson’s ability to remain grounded will be crucial as the season progresses. He aims to balance the excitement of good performances with the lessons learned from tougher weekends. With a strategic approach to both racing and mental resilience, Lawson is poised to make the most of the remainder of his season in Formula 1.