EXCLUSIVE
‘Pretty cool position’ – Max Verstappen unfazed by haters as Liam Lawson highlights Red Bull star’s kind heart
Red Bull reserve driver Liam Lawson respects the nonchalant approach his teammate Max Verstappen has to criticism.
Lawson has been a part of the Red Bull family for six years and within that time has seen the reigning champion rise to the pinnacle of F1.
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The Dutchman has won the last three world titles and in that time has shown a huge amount of ruthlessness and determination.
His driving style can be uncompromising which often infuriates opposition fans, drivers and teams - not that it bothers him.
When asked about the Dutchman's mentality, Lawson said: “I think Max is pretty clear that he’s not too fussed about what people think.
“I think it would be a pretty cool position to be in to win so much that you’re hated for it.”
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“It’s something he’s not worried about, I mean he has a huge fan base anyway outside of the people that don’t like him so much so he’s got nothing to worry about.”
Verstappen has been a role model to the Kiwi who has spent the best part of six years learning from the very best in F1.
Lawson has a clear goal to be a valued driver within the paddock and has expressed his admiration for what his teammate has achieved.
And he was keen to highlight an unseen side to the Dutchman.
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He added: "It was really when I stepped in the car last year. He was there and the way the driver room works within Red Bull is that it is in this energy station and they are all in the same area.
"Max was right next to my room and before the race in Zandvoort I was, obviously, pretty stressed about going in and he just came into my room and was pretty open and said to remember to enjoy it and that it's a big achievement.
"It's more that sort of stuff and not driving related. It was always more mental stuff.
"He's obviously a very mentally strong driver - probably one of the strongest, if not the strongest. He's not really phased about anything. He was somebody who was pretty good to talk to when I stepped into a high pressure situation."
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Lawson will need to adopt a similar style if he is to push his way through to a seat in 2025.
Liam Lawson was speaking to talkSPORT at the launch of EA Sports F1 24, which is out now on all platforms.
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