PHOTO: Cheering Lawson on will be the woman at his side, Hannah St. John. DAILY MAIL
When New Zealand’s rising star, Liam Lawson, secured his coveted spot on the Red Bull Formula 1 team, fans around the world celebrated his success. But behind the glamour of motorsport lies a tale of unparalleled family sacrifice.
Lawson, just 23 years old, has revealed the extraordinary lengths his parents went to, ensuring his racing dreams became a reality. To support his budding career as a karting driver, Liam’s family made the ultimate sacrifice: selling their home. That decision set the wheels in motion for a journey that would one day land him alongside Max Verstappen in the most prestigious racing championship on the planet.
In a candid interview with GQ, Lawson opened up about the pressure and responsibility he feels. “They still don’t own a house because of me,” he admitted, reflecting on the weight of his parents’ decision. While he chased podium finishes, they gave up their own financial security—all so their son could pursue his passion on the global stage.
It wasn’t just the financial burden that tested the family. Liam remembers vividly the pivotal moment his father, frustrated by Liam’s complaints about poor karting equipment, invested in two high-quality engines. This bold move paid off almost immediately, as Liam began qualifying at the front and consistently competing with the best. “That weekend changed everything,” Lawson recalls. It marked the transition of karting from a pastime to a serious career pursuit.
Although Liam is now a main driver for Red Bull, starting this weekend at the Australian Grand Prix, the journey hasn’t been without hardship. His parents remain without a home of their own, a reality that continues to drive Lawson’s hunger for success. He’s determined to repay their faith, both on the track and off it, proving that their sacrifices were worth every cent.
As Lawson gears up for his debut season, his story is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices families often make for greatness. Behind every F1 driver, there’s a tale of unwavering support, dreams deferred, and relentless determination.
The question remains: Can Liam Lawson’s meteoric rise bring the stability his family has sacrificed for so long? For now, the young driver carries their dreams in his cockpit, racing not just for victory, but for the family who bet it all on his talent.