The atmosphere within Red Bull has become even more tense after Max Verstappen made strong statements about Liam Lawson and his performance in Formula 1. The three-time world champion made it clear that, in his opinion, the New Zealand driver is not ready to compete in the main team and that Sergio “Checo” Pérez remains the best option to join him at the Austrian team.

Verstappen Doesn’t Hold Back: “Lawson Is Not Up To Par”

During a recent interview, Max Verstappen was asked about Liam Lawson’s chances of landing a seat at Red Bull in the near future. The Dutchman’s response was blunt:

“Liam is a good driver, but he’s not yet at the level needed for Red Bull. There’s a big difference between excelling at AlphaTauri and performing in the main team. The pressure, race pace, and consistency are completely different.”

These statements have caused a stir among fans and the press, especially since Liam Lawson has been considered by many as a strong candidate to replace Checo Pérez in 2025. However, with Verstappen making his point clear, it seems that the New Zealand driver’s future within the main team is further away than expected.

Checo Pérez Remains the Best Option

In addition to ruling out Lawson’s chances, Verstappen praised Sergio Pérez’s work at Red Bull, ensuring that his teammate remains key to the team’s success:

“Checo has shown he can win races, that he can score important points, and that he knows how to work with the team. People are very hard on him, but few understand how difficult it is to drive this car and stay competitive every weekend.”

These words from Verstappen reinforce Red Bull’s position to keep Checo Pérez on the team, at least until the end of 2024, when his contract expires. Although the Mexican has had his performances fluctuating, he remains a pillar of the team’s strategy to secure the Constructors’ Championship.

What Will Happen to Lawson?

With this statement from Verstappen, the chances of Liam Lawson replacing Checo in 2025 appear to be considerably diminishing. Everything indicates that the New Zealander will have to continue demonstrating his talent at AlphaTauri (or Visa Cash App RB) before applying for a seat at Red Bull.

For now, the Verstappen-Pérez duo remains the best combination for the team. However, in Formula 1, everything can change in a matter of months. Can Lawson surprise and change Verstappen’s mind? Or will another driver take his place in the fight for a seat at Red Bull?