Liam Lawson admitted that he feels markedly more at ease in the RB22 than in the previous Red Bull Racing car.
Rapid Call‑up for the Dutch Grand Prix
Red Bull Racing selected Lawson to replace the injured Isack Hadjar at the recent Dutch Grand Prix, marking his second stint with the Milton Keynes team during the 2025 season.
Hadjar had thrown out his wrist during training on the summer break, forcing the team to seek an immediate replacement. Lawson stepped in after his earlier 2025 outings, which ended with a best seventh‑place finish at Zandvoort.
Softening of Driver Comfort in the RB22
When asked how the current car compares with the RB21 he piloted last season, Lawson said he “still doesn’t have an opinion” on the older vehicle because his first two weekends on it were too unfamiliar and pressured.
In contrast, he noted that the RB22 gave him “more comfort” within a single weekend, making it easier to sustain race‑stage rhythm.
Aerodynamic Grid‑Shift Between RB21 and RB22
Lawson explained that the two cars differ “completely … aerodynamically.” He highlighted that when drivers switch cars, they cannot simply replicate previously adjusted settings.
He added that the RB22 possesses handling traits that “aren’t the same” as those he used previously, demanding a mental adjustment that he regards as the toughest part of the transition.
Driver‑Centred Adjustments and Team Dynamics
As a teenager from New Zealand, Lawson said that he and other drivers create “comfort” with specific car adjustments, which becomes a new puzzle when a new weekend weapon appears.
Red Bull officials have yet to confirm when Hadjar will fit back into the squad, though the rider’s return may be postponed after advice from MotoGP champion Marc Marquez.
Looking Ahead – Lawson’s Future Role
Lawson’s brief return for the Dutch Grand Prix ends an interrupted partnership with Red Bull Racing that began at the outset of the season. His latest performance indicated the club’s readiness to count on the Kiwi as a viable stand‑in when injuries arise.
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