Red Bull’s latest signing, Liam Lawson, has set his sights on bringing Formula 1 to his homeland. The young Kiwi driver, who recently secured a coveted seat with the renowned team, is hopeful that F1 will one day grace the tracks of New Zealand. This ambition comes amid a global surge in demand for new Grand Prix locations, as countries vie for the opportunity to host the world’s most prestigious motorsport event.

Unlocking New Horizons: Can New Zealand Join the F1 Circuit?

A Promising Start

Liam Lawson’s journey to Red Bull began when he stepped in as a reserve driver following Daniel Ricciardo’s wrist injury in 2023. Over a span of five races, Lawson demonstrated remarkable skill and adaptability, scoring points despite the brief stint. His performance was nothing short of impressive, catching the attention of Red Bull executives. Little did Ricciardo anticipate that Lawson would soon replace him in the upcoming season.The decision to promote Lawson was not taken lightly. After an extensive evaluation process, which included assessing both Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda, Red Bull chose the Kiwi driver to partner with Max Verstappen. Lawson’s meteoric rise from reserve to full-time driver showcases his potential and the faith Red Bull places in his abilities. The announcement came after the Abu Dhabi season finale, confirming Lawson’s place in the team for the future.

New Zealand’s F1 Aspirations

Lawson’s success has reignited discussions about bringing Formula 1 to New Zealand. The country’s passion for motorsports runs deep, but its lack of a concrete Grand Prix history and infrastructure poses significant challenges. Lawson acknowledges these obstacles, noting that upgrades would be necessary to meet FIA standards. Despite the hurdles, he remains optimistic and committed to making it happen.New Zealand’s bid to host an F1 race is part of a broader trend. Countries around the world are expressing interest in becoming part of the Formula 1 calendar. Rwanda, for instance, has recently submitted a bid to bring F1 back to Africa for the first time since 1993. President Paul Kagame’s enthusiasm underscores the global appeal of the sport and its potential to boost tourism and economic growth.

A Rotating Calendar for Global Expansion

To accommodate the growing demand for new locations, Formula 1 is considering a rotating calendar for European venues. This move could free up slots for countries like New Zealand and Rwanda, providing them with a chance to showcase their racing culture. The shift would also diversify the F1 experience, offering fans fresh and exciting destinations each year.Formula 1’s leadership, under Stefano Domenicali, has shown openness to exploring new opportunities. The organization’s willingness to expand into untapped markets signals a new era for the sport. For Lawson, this presents a unique opportunity to see F1 in his home country, fulfilling a lifelong dream and inspiring future generations of Kiwi drivers.

The Road Ahead

While the path to hosting an F1 race in New Zealand may be long and challenging, Lawson’s determination and Red Bull’s support offer hope. The young driver’s success story serves as a testament to the possibilities that lie ahead. As Formula 1 continues to evolve, the dream of seeing a Grand Prix in New Zealand remains alive, driven by passion and perseverance.