Lawson excited for ‘big opportunity’

Liam Lawson has reflected on a “strong season” for the Racing Bulls team after they finished sixth in the Formula 1 constructors’ championship.

The New Zealander ended the 2025 campaign 14th in the drivers’ standings after collecting 38 points.

He was two places behind teammate Isack Hadjar, who accumulated 51 points and will join multiple world champion Max Verstappen at Red Bull next year.

The season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on December 8 was largely one to forget for Racing Bulls after Hadjar and Lawson, pictured, finished 17th and 18th respectively.

However, the pair did enough over the course of the championship to clinch sixth place for the team. Aston Martin were three points behind in seventh place.

“Congratulations to the team on P6 in the constructors’,” says Lawson. 

“While we struggled with our strategy and pace [in Abu Dhabi], we’ve had a strong season and achieved our target this weekend. 

“I’m excited to get back to work after the short winter break. Next year will be a big opportunity with the team, which I’m very excited and grateful for.”

Alan Permane, team principal, notes the latest grand prix completed a “really great season” for Racing Bulls. 

“Sixth place in the championship is amazing. We’ve only ever reached P6 once before, so it’s a huge achievement,” he adds.

“It’s truly a testament to the commitment, passion and hard work within this team, both at the track and back at the factory. 

“Each and every person can be really proud of themselves. There have been ups and downs all the way through and it really went down to the wire with Aston Martin, but I’m incredibly happy.”

McLaren’s British driver Lando Norris clinched the F1 championship by two points after taking third place in Abu Dhabi.

The race was won by Verstappen, who ended the season second overall, and next was McLaren’s Oscar Piastri who was third in the final standings.