Red Bull Racing test and reserve driver Liam Lawson has the privilege of driving the RB18 and AlphaTauri multiple times during the 2022 season. After two tough Formula 2 seasons, the New Zealander heads to Japan for Super Formula, where he hopes to prove himself for a Formula 1 seat at AlphaTauri from 2024. Super Formula is the fifth racing class in which Lawson will compete.

Although Lawson was mainly active in Formula 2 last season, he was no stranger to a few Formula 1 free practice sessions here and there. The New Zealander’s association with Red Bull has allowed him to train for the Austrian side in Abu Dhabi, and he has played for Alfadouri in Belgium and Mexico. It received positive feedback as the young driver performed well. He finished his season third in Formula 2.

In addition to Formula 2, Lawson has experience in the DTM, where he competed in 2021 and almost became champion. He has several seasons in other racing classes on his CV, that too at the age of 20. And the New Zealander thinks that should help him land an F1 seat. “Of course I have my age with me,” Lawson begins Motorsport.com, he previously indicated that he wanted to follow former AlphaTauri driver Pierre Gasly into Super Formula. ‘In New Zealand you can race as early as thirteen. So at 20 I’ve already driven two seasons in Formula 4, two seasons in Formula 3 and two seasons in Formula 2,’ says Lawson.

“Now I drive in Super Formula,” continues the 20-year-old. “This will definitely be an important year for my career.” In Super Formula they will start the upcoming season with a new car for the first time since 2019. So it involves some changes in the field of aerodynamics, but also some other changes. “Look at it positively because I’ve tested it in F1 and they move in the same direction with the aerodynamics on the ground,” said Lawson. ‘I also adapt to new cars very quickly.’ Because Lawson has experience in many classes. “Hopefully I can feel at home on the circuits soon. They are Old school.’

Lawson set a goal to attract AlphaTauri by 2024

As Super Formula regulations do not allow driving on circuits outside of official test days, simulator work in particular becomes more important. If Lawson gets off to a good start in his first season in the Japanese racing series, he could make a good impression on AlphaTauri, the Formula 1 team he wants to drive for in 2024. That gives him extra motivation to do well in Super Formula. “As far as I’m concerned, it’s all about winning,” the New Zealander said, grabbing the opportunity with both hands and putting himself fully on Italy’s radar.