Daniel Ricciardo's Formula 1 replacement Liam Lawson is under big pressure to deliver quickly at Red Bull, it has been claimed.
It has been a whirlwind few months for the Kiwi driver, who, back in September, did not even have a seat in the sport, simply having to put up with a reserve driver role at Red Bull.
Following a dismal 2024, Perez lost his seat alongside Max Verstappen, and Lawson is the man set to step in as Red Bull look to get back to the top in the constructors' championship this campaign.
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Liam Lawson under pressure at Red Bull
Given that Lawson has completed just 11 grands prix, the promotion to Red Bull comes at a very early stage in his career, particularly considering that Yuki Tsunoda has completed four seasons at Red Bull's junior team.
Former Red Bull star David Coulthard is backing the Kiwi, however, and states that whilst there is pressure on Lawson, he has also been handed a fantastic opportunity.
"It is a big opportunity for Liam Lawson and a big pressure," Coulthard explained on the Formula For Success podcast.
"But as I've said before, pressure is when you feel you're not in control. Right now, Liam will feel pretty confident. He's had a good debut alongside Yuki.
"Whether he carries that confidence into being able to match Max or not, remains to be seen. But the steering wheel is very much in his hands."
Lawson's move to Red Bull meant there was also a promotion for another Red Bull junior this season.