Red Bull remains unfazed by Liam Lawson's heated exchange with two-time champion Fernando Alonso during the US Grand Prix.
The race in Austin was 22-year-old Lawson's first since stepping in for the axed Daniel Ricciardo at Red Bull's junior team RB, and the young New Zealander made a strong impression.
Lawson, who has positioned himself as a possible contender to replace Sergio Perez at Red Bull Racing in 2025, faces stiff competition from his teammate Yuki Tsunoda. Tsunoda, with significant backing from Honda, is also being pushed as a strong candidate. In fact, HRC president Koji Watanabe has publicly called for Tsunoda to receive a test at Red Bull Racing.
"We have some plans for Abu Dhabi," Dr. Helmut Marko said, likely referring to the post-season test. "But, as you know, we also have (Isack) Hadjar and now Liam as well."
Lawson's clash with Alonso began to unfold during the Austin sprint race, with the 43-year-old Spaniard calling the rookie an "idiot" over the radio. Later, Alonso was spotted arguing with Lawson off-track.
After another incident in qualifying, Lawson remarked, "He said he was going to screw me, and I think he kept his word. He was really upset – I don't know why. Hopefully, he can get over it, and we can move on."
By the time Sunday's main race concluded, Alonso had cooled down but hinted that their rivalry might not be over. "Everyone behaves as they want on the track," said Alonso. "It's 24 races, so you always meet each other here and there during a season."
As for Red Bull, the team's leadership appeared pleased with Lawson's performance and his feisty battle with the veteran Alonso. "He was very impressive all weekend," Marko said, with a smile. "And Alonso was complaining!"
Christian Horner shared the sentiment: "If you get into a fight with Fernando and stick out your elbows in your first race after coming back, you're probably doing something right. I think he had an exceptional race. He showed speed, he showed courage. It was a great comeback."
