Sergio Perez: Liam Lawson lacks the right attitude for success in Formula 1
Mexico GP: Sergio Perez Criticizes Liam Lawson's Approach to Formula 1
MEXICO CITY - Sergio Perez has openly criticized Liam Lawson, his potential Red Bull replacement, labelling the Kiwi "out of control" and suggesting that Lawson possesses the wrong attitude for Formula 1.
On Lap 19, a fierce battle for position between Perez and Lawson saw the latter’s car make contact with the Red Bull’s sidepod as he muscled past on the exit of the Turn 4/5 chicane. This confrontation followed a heated exchange Lawson had with Fernando Alonso at the U.S. Grand Prix, his first race since replacing Daniel Ricciardo.
"He nearly crashed with Fernando last weekend, he nearly crashed with Franco [Colapinto]," Perez stated. "I think he's just racing everyone out of control at the moment."
Perez believes that Lawson must alter his approach if he hopes to succeed in the sport.
"I think the way he has come to Formula 1, I don't think he has the right attitude for it. He needs to be a bit more humble, you know. When a two-time world champion was saying things last weekend, he completely ignored him," Perez remarked. "It's like when you come to Formula 1, you're obviously very hungry, but you have to be respectful off-track and on-track. I don't think he's showing the right attitude to realize his potential, even though I believe he’s a great driver."
Lawson was brought in to substitute Ricciardo as Red Bull examines his potential as a future replacement for Perez, who has endured a difficult 2024 season. However, Perez warned that Lawson's aggressive driving style and demeanor could jeopardize his career.
"I think in his first two grand prix he has had too many incidents and I think there will be a point where it can cost him too much, like it did this weekend. He has to recognize that he’s overdoing it, step back, and start again. Learning from mistakes is crucial; if you don’t, Formula 1 is a brutal world and he might not continue," advised Perez.
Tensions escalated further when onboard cameras captured Lawson raising his middle finger at Perez after passing him on the main straight. Lawson later expressed regret for his actions.
"It's obviously one of those in the moment things, he spent half the lap blocking me trying to ruin my race. I was upset, but it's not an excuse, I shouldn't have done it and I apologize for that,” Lawson said. When asked about Red Bull Racing advisor Helmut Marko's potential reaction, Lawson replied, "I don't think it's what Helmut likes, it's not my character, it's not something I should have done."
Perez suggested that either Marko or Red Bull boss Christian Horner should address Lawson's approach.
"That's none of my business, it's up to them. But today it cost Red Bull Racing a lot of points, so I think they should speak to him," Perez concluded.
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