Red Bull Racing’s Horner Acknowledges Risk of Albon, Gasly Situation Recurring
In a recent interview, Red Bull Racing team principal Christian Horner openly admitted the potential risks associated with promoting young drivers too quickly within the team’s competitive environment. Horner specifically addressed the situation surrounding Liam Lawson, who has been chosen to partner with star driver Max Verstappen in the upcoming season despite limited experience in Formula 1.
Lawson’s Rapid Rise and Potential Challenges
Lawson’s selection comes after just 11 grands prix, raising concerns about the parallels with past struggles faced by drivers like Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon at Red Bull. Horner acknowledged the inherent dangers of repeating history but highlighted Lawson’s unique qualities that set him apart from his predecessors.
Horner praised Lawson’s resilience, strength of character, and ability to handle pressure, emphasizing that the young driver has already proven himself capable of performing under challenging circumstances. Despite the unexpected acceleration of Lawson’s promotion to the main team due to Sergio Perez’s underwhelming season, Horner expressed confidence in Lawson’s trajectory and driving style aligning well with Verstappen’s approach.
Learning from Past Mistakes and Nurturing Talent
Reflecting on previous driver pairings within the team, Horner emphasized the importance of maintaining a clear hierarchy and creating a more forgiving car setup to support Lawson’s development. By establishing Verstappen as the lead driver and focusing on a wider operating window for the RB21 car, Red Bull aims to provide Lawson with a more conducive environment to thrive and learn without excessive expectations.
Horner also highlighted the shift in dynamics within the team, with Verstappen now a seasoned world champion, setting a clear benchmark for the younger drivers. By learning from past mistakes and prioritizing Lawson’s growth and development, Red Bull aims to avoid the pitfalls that plagued previous junior drivers and create a more sustainable pathway for emerging talents within the team.