Christian Horner says Liam Lawson promotion made him uncomfortable

Tuesday 20 October 2026 · 3 outlets · 2 reports · updated Tue 20 Oct, 10:41am

In this story Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls, Red Bull Racing, Max Verstappen, Formula One, Yuki Tsunoda

Former Red Bull boss Christian Horner has stated he was uncomfortable with New Zealander Liam Lawson being promoted to the senior team for the 2025 Formula 1 season. Lawson was demoted back to Racing Bulls after two races alongside Max Verstappen, following a period where he failed to score points.

How they headlined it

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1. RNZTue 20 Oct, 9:30am

   Former Red Bull F1 boss was 'uncomfortable' that Liam Lawson was promoted in 2025 (opens in new tab)

   Also on Stuff (opens in new tab)

2. 1NewsTue 20 Oct, 10:41am

   Ex-Red Bull boss says Lawson's promotion made him 'uncomfortable' (opens in new tab)