Liam Lawson is gearing up to make a strong impression at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, a critical race for the New Zealand driver as he strives to secure his Formula 1 future. Since making his debut as an emergency substitute for Daniel Ricciardo at the Dutch Grand Prix in 2023, Lawson has consistently shown his potential. Now, with only three races left in the 2024 season, the stakes have never been higher for Lawson to prove to Red Bull that he deserves a full-time seat for the 2025 season.
Lawson’s Breakthrough: From Stand-In to Standout
Liam Lawson’s F1 debut came under intense pressure after Ricciardo broke his wrist, leaving him to fill in at Zandvoort. With only one practice session (FP3) to prepare, Lawson managed a solid performance, finishing P13 and outpacing his more experienced teammate, Yuki Tsunoda. Since then, Lawson has earned his place as a reliable stand-in, consistently outshining Tsunoda in race results (6-2). Now, with the fight for a seat in 2025 heating up, Lawson knows this upcoming race in Las Vegas could be his defining moment.
“I can’t wait to race in Vegas; it’s an iconic place with a very unique track,” Lawson shared. “It looks tricky, with combined braking zones and a very long straight down the strip that offers overtaking opportunities. Racing under the lights is always exciting, and I’m pumped for the challenge.”
The Las Vegas Grand Prix: A Cold and Complex Challenge
As the Las Vegas Grand Prix returns for its second appearance on the F1 calendar, the 6.2-kilometer circuit featuring 17 corners and a 1.9-kilometer straight promises to be a challenge for drivers. The track demands an optimal balance of downforce and efficiency, with cold night conditions adding to the complexity of tire and brake management.
VCARB technical boss Jody Egginton explained: “Grip levels remain at a premium on this temporary track, making it tough for drivers to keep their brakes and tires in the right operating window, especially given the cold night conditions.”
Yuki Tsunoda echoed the challenge, emphasizing the need for precise car setup to tackle the slow corners and fast straights, crucial for both braking and top speed.
The Midfield Battle: Stakes Are High for VCARB
With the Las Vegas Grand Prix marking the start of an intense triple-header to end the season, VCARB is fighting for a P6 spot in the Constructors’ Championship. Sitting at P8 with 44 points, trailing Haas (46) and Alpine (49), the team has a lot to gain from strong performances in these final races.
Egginton said, “Our expectation is to be very much in the midfield battle. We aim to fight for every possible point as we approach the end of the season.”
Tsunoda vs. Lawson: The Battle Within
The internal competition between Tsunoda and Lawson is as fierce as ever. While Tsunoda leads Lawson in qualifying (7-1), Lawson has shown superior racecraft and composure, winning the head-to-head race results (6-2). With Tsunoda under pressure in his fourth season, the rivalry intensifies, especially with Red Bull’s junior driver pool looking to secure a spot for 2025.
Lawson’s Long-Term Prospects
Liam Lawson’s performance at Las Vegas and in the remaining races could be pivotal for his Formula 1 future. With Red Bull reportedly considering a change for Sergio Pérez, the stakes are higher than ever for the Kiwi driver to earn a full-time seat. Additionally, Franco Colapinto has emerged as another potential candidate for the coveted Red Bull seat, intensifying the competition.
Conclusion: A Defining Moment in Sin City
For Liam Lawson, the Las Vegas Grand Prix is more than just another race. It’s a chance to prove he belongs in Formula 1 permanently. With VCARB fighting for midfield supremacy and Red Bull keeping a close eye, Lawson’s performance could determine if he earns a full-time seat for 2025 or remains a reserve driver. As the season wraps up, the battle for points, pride, and recognition will make this a thrilling finale.
