Horner reveals Verstappen Lawson similarity crucial to Red Bull cause

Christian Horner feels there is a striking similarity in the driving styles of Max Verstappen and Liam Lawson that will prove vital to the team's quest to recapture its F1 constructors' title this year.

Lawson makes the surprising step up to Red Bull this season even though he has only competed in 11 grands prix over two years with the junior outfit, AlphaTauri and then RB, initially deputising for an injured Daniel Ricciardo in 2023 before replacing the axed Australian last year.

The New Zealander was given the nod over four-season campaigner Yuki Tsunoda after Red Bull opted to sever ties with Sergio Perez following a wretched season last year that prevented the team from retaining the constructors' championship.

Horner and advisor Helmut Marko felt that after analysing data from Lawson and Tsunoda, the 22-year-old was the better prospect - especially after recognising that he and Verstappen like their cars set up in a particular way.

Horner recognises that, as with Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon before him, who both stepped up to a Red Bull seat before they were dropped, Lawson's opportunity may be too soon.  

"The danger is a repeat of that," said Horner, speaking to select media, including RacingNews365.

Horner feels with Lawson, however, that he "is a different character, a different personality to be able to deal with that pressure".

He added: "He's shown real resilience and strength of character with the opportunity he's been provided to have to turn up, get on with it and deliver, and he's done that.

"The plan, initially, wasn't for that to be accelerated [for this year]. Circumstances have been dictated, with Checo, unfortunately, not having a great season.

"But we believe, with where Liam is at, the trajectory that he's on, he will only improve".

Crucially, Horner then noted: "And he drives the car in a similar fashion to Max.

"He doesn't shy away from having a very positive front end in the car, so in terms of driving characteristics, it will be easier for the cars to run more closely together in set-up."