Let's dive into a story that's more than just a car drive - it's an emotional journey for a racing enthusiast with a deep connection to the sport's history.
The Emotional Drive
Liam Lawson, a New Zealander, was given the chance to drive a legendary car, the #2 McLaren/Amon Ford GT40, at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. This car holds a special place in New Zealand's motorsport history, as it was driven to victory by Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans. The win is a controversial chapter in Ford's story, as depicted in the film 'Ford vs Ferrari.'
Lawson's experience was unexpected. He arrived at Goodwood without plans to drive the car, but a spontaneous request to its owner led to an unforgettable moment. The driver was visibly shaken after the hillclimb, expressing the significance of the car's New Zealand heritage.
A Bucket-List Moment
Lawson described the drive as a bucket-list experience, one that left him sitting in the car long after the run, relishing the moment. He spoke of the unique sensations - the vibrations, frequencies, and noise - that set this car apart from modern racers. Despite an RPM limit, Lawson couldn't resist pushing the car, describing the upper rev range as a symphony.
Beyond Le Mans
The significance of the GT40 extends beyond its Le Mans victory for Lawson. As a New Zealander, he's connected to the country's racing heritage, including Bruce McLaren's legacy and the success of his compatriots. Lawson's personal ties to the families of Bruce and Chris Amon made the drive even more special.
Racing Bulls and Form
Lawson's focus is currently on his Racing Bulls duties at Spa-Francorchamps. He's in great form, having scored points in seven of the first nine races, including the last five grands prix consecutively. This puts him in 10th place in the drivers' championship, with a total score surpassing his entire 2025 season tally.
The 24-year-old attributes his success to the team's progress and upgrades, which have been executed well. He's optimistic about Spa, expecting the track to suit the car's strengths, especially with new cooling system parts introduced for the Belgian Grand Prix.
Conclusion
Lawson's story is a reminder of the emotional depth that racing can evoke, especially when history and personal connections are involved. It's not just about the car or the track - it's about the feelings and memories that racing can stir. As Lawson said, it's a feeling he'll likely never experience again in a race car.
