Racing Bulls driver Liam Lawson has publicly criticized Red Bull Racing's management, describing his sudden dismissal after just two races in the 2025 Formula 1 season as unacceptable.
Lawson replaced Sergio Perez alongside Max Verstappen at the start of the season but was removed after the Chinese Grand Prix.
He revealed that severe preparation deficits and a tactical experiment in China undermined his performance.
Speaking on the High Performance Podcast, Lawson rejected the narrative that he was struggling mentally and that the team acted to protect him.
He insisted that was not the real situation.
His struggles began with missing vital practice sessions due to mechanical failures.
In China, the team implemented a radical setup change on Saturday night, forcing a pit lane start to gather data.
Lawson described the car as extremely difficult to drive, with rapid tire wear that ruined the race.
Despite agreeing to the experiment for the team's benefit, he received his termination notice upon returning to the UK.
He stated that using those performances against him was unacceptable, especially on two unfamiliar circuits.
He emphasized that Formula 1 is a team sport and he did not feel supported.
Reflecting on his entry, Lawson acknowledged he could have performed better but noted the close margins in the midfield.
Being three to five tenths behind Verstappen could mean elimination in Q1.
Lawson defended Verstappen against negative media portrayals, describing him as supportive and genuinely interested in his progress since his early career.
Verstappen frequently asked about his F2 performance.
During his turbulent tenure at Red Bull, Verstappen remained an anchor. Lawson said he spoke mostly with Verstappen, who was very supportive.
Lawson recalled his 2023 debut at Zandvoort, where he witnessed Verstappen's skill firsthand.
In wet practice, Verstappen threw the car into a power slide over kerbs, something Lawson felt unable to replicate.
When Lawson attempted the same move, he spun. He noted that Verstappen has many moments of catching the car at the absolute limit.
Lawson also highlighted Verstappen's uncompromising racing philosophy from their battle in Miami. Verstappen's mindset is 'give in, or we crash,' even when fighting for the edge of points.
