Lawson reveals shocking online abuse around Red Bull promotion

Liam Lawson has revealed his shock at receiving a significant amount of online abuse, since being given six races by Racing Bulls to showcase his potential. 

Lawson replaced fan favourite Daniel Ricciardo at the Red Bull sister team for the final six races of the 2024 F1 season, to see if he deserved a seat on the grid next year. 

Replacing an F1 favourite did come with a wave of online backlash for Lawson, who accepts that he was not ready for the torrent of abuse. 

Despite the difficulties he faced online, Lawson impressed Red Bull's senior figures, resulting in the recent announcement that he will partner Max Verstappen next season. 

Prior to confirmation that Sergio Perez was going to be replaced by the 22-year-old, further hate was directed Lawson's way as the rumours of a Red Bull move intensified.

“Originally I saw a lot of [the abuse] because I didn’t expect it, I wasn’t ready for that,” Lawson told The Times. 

“To be honest, I just don’t really go on social media at all any more. I will post for my fanbase, but I won’t scroll or look through messages. 

"You do the prep for F1 to be ready as a driver, and then you don’t really expect that kind of stuff, or you don’t really prepare for it, because you’re just focused on driving.”

Alonso comments

It was not only online where Lawson faced criticism, with one fellow F1 driver in particular having directed comments towards him. 

Two-time world champion Fernando Alonso referred to Lawson as an "idiot" at the United States Grand Prix, criticising his driving style. 

Lawson does not take these comments to heart and has no issues with his peers, but does raise the point that he had six races to warrant being on the grid next year.

“There’s nothing personal with anybody, but I [had] six races to show something," added Lawson. 

"I’m not trying to be overly aggressive to prove anything, but I’m also not going to race any differently because somebody’s experienced or somebody’s respected in the sport.”