Scott Dixon Supports Liam Lawson Amid Red Bull Challenges at Chinese Grand Prix
New Zealand’s most decorated modern motorsport champion, Scott Dixon, has weighed in on the pressures facing fellow Kiwi Liam Lawson as he enters his second Formula 1 weekend with Red Bull Racing. Dixon believes the current state of Red Bull’s car may actually ease the pressure on Lawson during the Chinese Grand Prix, held at the Shanghai International Circuit.
Red Bull’s Car Struggles Offer Relief
Dixon pointed out that Red Bull Racing is no longer the dominant force it once was, with its car often described as difficult to handle. Speaking about Lawson’s situation, Dixon remarked, “Maybe there’s not as much pressure [on Lawson], because nobody’s saying that it’s the best car out there.” This perspective could provide some solace to Lawson, who is navigating a high-pressure debut season alongside four-time world champion Max Verstappen.
A Rocky Start in Melbourne
Lawson’s Formula 1 debut at the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne was far from ideal. Technical issues during practice hampered his performance, leading to a third-to-last qualifying position in a field of 20 drivers. The race itself ended disastrously when Lawson crashed out, raising questions about his readiness for the challenge.
Dixon’s Mentorship and Encouragement
Dixon revealed that he has been in regular contact with Lawson, exchanging text messages to offer support and advice. “We were texting through Melbourne. I’ll probably text him today or tomorrow,” Dixon shared. He acknowledged the tough start but expressed confidence in Lawson’s ability to bounce back: “He’s been racing long enough to know how to reset. He’s a huge talent, and I’m pulling for him hardcore.”
The two drivers first met at New Zealand’s Leadfoot Festival in 2016 when Lawson was just 13 years old. Their relationship has grown over time, including shared experiences at a Honda event in Las Vegas last year. Honda supplies engines to both Red Bull Racing and Dixon’s Chip Ganassi Racing team in IndyCar.
Learning from Verstappen
Dixon highlighted the unique opportunity for Lawson to learn from Verstappen, widely regarded as one of the greatest drivers of his generation. “He’s definitely going into the gauntlet, man, alongside Max,” Dixon said. He emphasized that observing Verstappen’s adaptive driving style could be invaluable for Lawson’s development.
Setting Goals for Success
Looking ahead to 2025, Dixon outlined what success might look like for Lawson: steady progression and narrowing the gap between his performance and Verstappen’s. “In some situations I think they’re going to get to a circuit, and he’ll be quicker than Max,” Dixon speculated. He added that podium finishes—and even a race win—would be significant milestones for Lawson.
As Lawson prepares for his next challenge at the Chinese Grand Prix, he carries not only the weight of expectations but also the support of one of New Zealand’s greatest motorsport icons. Whether he can rise to meet these challenges remains to be seen.