Red Bull confirm Sergio Perez’s replacement for next season after the Mexican driver’s torrid season triggered an early exit from the constructor

Liam Lawson has been named Sergio Perez’s replacement at Red Bull next season, describing his promotion as a ‘lifetime dream’.

The 22-year-old’s elevation – confirmed on Thursday morning – pairs him with reigning world champion Max Verstappen.

Lawson’s big chance comes after Perez’s departure was announced on Wednesday, paving the way for the New Zealander to complete his four-year journey through Red Bull’s junior programme.

Lawson made his Formula One debut with AlphaTauri in Holland last season as stand-in for the injured Daniel Ricciardo, and scored his first points in the following race in Singapore.

After a period as reserve driver, he took over Ricciardo’s role at the Racing Bulls team permanently earlier this year with a ninth-place finish in the US. He has started 11 grands prix in total.

‘This is a lifelong dream for me – it’s something I’ve wanted and worked towards since I was eight years old,’ said Lawson.

Perez’s exit from the Austrian manufacturer was confirmed on Wednesday following weeks of negotiations

Team principal Christian Horner said that Lawson demonstrated that he is a ‘real racer’

‘I am super excited to work alongside Max and learn from a world champion. I can’t wait to get going.’

Team principal Christian Horner said: ‘Liam has demonstrated that he is not only capable of delivering strong results but that he’s also a real racer, not afraid to mix it with the best and come out on top.

‘There’s no doubt that racing alongside Max, a four-time champion and undoubtedly one of the greatest drivers ever seen in F1, is a daunting task, but I’m sure Liam can rise to the challenge and deliver some outstanding results for us next year.’