The decision by Red Bull to sideline Liam Lawson after just two Grands Prix raised eyebrows in the paddock – but within the team, they remain resolute. Oliver Mintzlaff, CEO of Red Bull GmbH, recently reflected on the tough decision to demote Lawson back to Racing Bulls. The German showed understanding for the team’s choice, knowing that there is no room for sentiment in top-level sports.
“Formula 1 is a top-level sport, and the performances simply weren’t good enough,” Mintzlaff explained to the German BILD. “It would have been wrong to keep Liam Lawson in the car. With the increasing pressure, we would not have done him any favors.” Lawson failed to qualify higher than eighteenth in his two Grands Prix with Red Bull. During the race weekend in China, he clocked the slowest time twice – during both the sprint qualification and the regular qualification. In the races, he did not get further than twelfth place, and in the rain in Melbourne, he didn’t even make it to the finish line.
‘Full Confidence in Red Bull’
According to Mintzlaff, it was a bitter pill to swallow for Liam Lawson, who felt he could prove himself on other circuits. However, the New Zealander has since come to terms with the decision. “In the end, he understood us and accepted this choice,” Mintzlaff continued. “We are glad that he is now back with Racing Bulls.” Lawson had previously raced for the subsidiary team, but moved up to Red Bull last year – much to the regret of Yuki Tsunoda – who has since been given the opportunity to race alongside Max Verstappen at his home race in Suzuka.
While Tsunoda has managed to score points for the Austrians, he pales in comparison to Max Verstappen. According to the Japanese driver, this is all down to the car. The RB21, like its predecessor, is a treacherous vehicle. Behind the scenes, efforts are being made to create more racing balance. “I see how self-critical the team is; they put everything to the test,” Mintzlaff emphasized. “Despite the successful years, you can feel the hunger for more. Everyone wants to win and return to the top. I have full confidence that this can succeed.” The recent shifts in Red Bull’s leadership, according to Mintzlaff, have nothing to do with a lack of competitiveness. “We didn’t suddenly forget how to build a Formula 1 car during the winter break,” he concluded emphatically.
