Former F1 team boss names ‘real deal’ driver to replace Perez

Former F1 team owner Eddie Jordan has backed Liam Lawson to replace Sergio Perez at Red Bull next season.

Perez has been struggling for form for much of the ongoing campaign, with his position at Red Bull for 2025 under major scrutiny.

Lawson has been identified as a potential replacement for Perez following his mid-season return to the grid at RB in place of Daniel Ricciardo.

The New Zealander had another strong race in Brazil last time out, crossing the line in ninth place ahead of Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton.

Speaking on the Formula For Success podcast, Jordan hailed Lawson for his efforts in Sao Paulo

“The person who stood out for me, and I have to be honest again - Lawson is the real deal here,” said Jordan.

“He drove with a lot of pressure, and he knows how to handle himself.

“He has not got the car that Lewis [Hamilton] had. He had not got the car that other people had, but he displayed a level of competence that I was super impressed with.”

Jordan backs Lawson to 'fly' in 2025

Lawson has just eight grand prix starts to his name but has impressed during his short stint in F1.

Jordan is confident Lawson is worthy of being placed alongside Max Verstappen at the front-running Red Bull squad next year.

“He’s ready to fly in 2025,” he stated. “Perez, how many chances has he? Do you think he'll have a drive next year? Not a chance.

“He’s a lovely, lovely, lovely guy. But we know lovely guys don't win you grands prix.

“Lawson is the deal, he's part of the family there, part of the make-up, and he should be in.

“He is the person that should be in that car.”