F1 | Red Bull-RB, Albers criticizes the decision to leave Lawson on the bench in 2024

F1 Albers Lawson – In the newspaper De Telegraaf, Christijan Albers criticized Red Bull's choice to leave Liam Lawson on the bench for the 2024 Formula 1 season, specifying how the New Zealander - thanks to the splendid performances shown between the Zandvoort and Doha GPs - deserved a opportunity as an official within the youth team of the Austrian team (formerly AlphaTauri, now Visa Cash App RB).

According to the Dutchman, Lawson showed an excellent spirit of adapting to the team and despite his lack of experience behind the wheel he managed to guarantee good performances straight away, without making any serious mistakes. Important qualities which on paper should have guaranteed him a permanent commitment starting from the season which will start on February 21st with the pre-season tests in Bahrain

Albers and the regret about Lawson

“Not seeing him on the grid already this year surprised me, but I'm sure he will have chances already during 2024. Ricciardo is pressing Perez regarding the seat in Red Bull and a possible change would guarantee him priority for the seat at Faenza. Obviously everything depends on the work that Checo and Daniel will do. In any case, I'm very sorry not to see him on the grid this year. He did a great job last year, competing well in the five races he competed in, and I think he deserved a new opportunity. A team like the former AlphaTauri should help its young people grow."

Lawson and the score in 2023

Initially third driver for Red Bull and AlphaTauri, Lawson ran five races with the Faenza team - precisely between Zandvoort and Doha - showing absolutely respectable performances since his debut in Holland. In total, the New Zealander guaranteed himself 2 points, revealing himself to be a concrete, fast driver who is not prone to making mistakes. Important qualities that have allowed him to climb the ranks within the youth squad in the hands of Helmut Marko.