Liam Lawson eyes Supercars drive alongside F1 career

Racing Bulls reserve driver Liam Lawson has expressed a strong desire to compete in other racing series, specifically naming Supercars as a championship he would "love" to try. His comments come as several current F1 drivers, like Max Verstappen and Lance Stroll, have turned to GT racing during the season, highlighting a growing trend of drivers seeking competition outside the grand prix calendar.

Why it matters:

The interest from F1 talent in premier touring car series like Supercars validates the series' appeal and raw racing style, while also showcasing the modern driver's desire to stay race-sharp and adaptable. For Lawson, a highly-rated prospect awaiting a full-time F1 seat, competing in other disciplines maintains his profile and skills during a reserve role.

The details:

• Lawson confirmed rumors linking him to a Supercars drive during F1's April break were unfounded, but he called the idea "a very cool one."
• He praised the Australian series for maintaining a "raw" feel with V8 engines and sequential gearboxes, contrasting it with F1's highly technical and regulated environment.
• The New Zealander cited his past success in diverse series like DTM and Super Formula as proof of his adaptability, something he values highly in his career development.
• He hinted that a proper Supercars attempt would require dedicated preparation time, suggesting it's more likely later in his career when his schedule is less singularly focused on F1.

What's next:

While no concrete plans are in place, Lawson's open enthusiasm makes him a prime candidate for future one-off appearances in Supercars, especially for marquee events in New Zealand. His stance reflects a broader movement where F1 drivers are no longer confined to single-seaters, seeking varied challenges that also please sponsors and fans. For now, his immediate focus remains on securing a permanent F1 race seat, but the door is firmly open for cross-discipline racing in the future.