Lawson receives warm welcome by his 'new' team Racing Bulls in Suzuka

Entering the paddock ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix, Lawson's current team, Racing Bulls have shared footage on social media of being pleasantly surprised by the crew. Including team principal Laurent Mekies, a part of the team waited with a sign: 'We missed you.'

Just after two rounds, the New Zealander now returns to the team he made his F1 debut with.

In 2023, he was a temporary substitute for an injured Daniel Ricciardo, and he replaced the Australian as a full-time driver at the team in the 2024 after the Singapore GP.

After the 2024 season has concluded, it was decided to promoted Lawson to sit alongside Max Verstappen in the RB21, but he was replaced after two Grands Prix weekends.

Team principal Laurent Mekies is looking forward to seeing whether Lawson could continue the performance he earned promotion with in the first place. Moreover, the Racing Bulls car is considered to be an easier one to drive, and one Lawson's familiar with.