Liam Lawson opens up: here's how Verstappen backed the kiwi driver through his Red Bull demotion

Liam Lawson's whirlwind 2025 season at Red Bull Racing lasted just two race weekends—a humbling introduction to the sport's brutal nature that could have derailed his F1 career entirely. Yet amidst the disappointment and shock of his demotion, the New Zealand driver found an unexpected ally in his former team-mate: four-time world champion Max Verstappen.

From teammate to confidant

However, Verstappen's support extended far beyond steering advice. Notably, Verstappen had publicly disagreed with Red Bull's decision to demote Lawson after the Australian and Shanghai races, a stance that demonstrated his faith in the 23-year-old despite the disastrous results. The defending champion's backing provided moral support during an otherwise isolating experience.

Beyond the paddock

Perhaps most tellingly, Verstappen's generosity transcended the F1 bubble. After Lawson relocated to Monaco, Verstappen extended practical assistance. "He flies home quite often, and I just moved to Monaco last year, and he's like 'Just come with me if you ever need a ride.' So he's a real, real nice guy," Lawson shared. Such gestures, while seemingly minor, carry significant weight for a young driver navigating a new city whilst processing a professional setback.

Redemption and 2026 Optimism

The demotion ultimately proved transformative. Upon returning to Racing Bulls, Lawson demonstrated the resilience that would eventually secure his 2026 seat alongside rookie sensation Arvid Lindblad. With pre-season testing completed and the Australian Grand Prix looming on March 6-8, Lawson enters the new campaign reinvigorated—bolstered not only by redemptive performances but by the genuine human connections forged within the paddock, particularly with Verstappen.