Not only does Max Verstappen know the secrets of Red Bull Racing's RB21, a fellow Dutchman does too. Rudy van Buren is on the Austrian team's roster as a simulator driver, setting forth the foundations for the current world champion to make it five titles on the trot in 2025.

Lawson has taken a huge leap into the unknown, without having grit his teeth in the F1 mid-pack with Racing Bulls. A jump from a reserve driver at a lesser team to the number two role at F1's most successful team this decade could leave him feeling like a fish out of water.

Reigning champion Max Verstappen has said he does not believe Red Bull has a car capable of challenging for victory at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix.

McLaren may be the team to beat heading to Melbourne for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, but Red Bull have the “joker” in the pack in Max Verstappen. That’s according to Helmut Marko, who has been sharing his thoughts on Verstappen’s title chances.