Dr Helmut Marko has set a demanding benchmark for Liam Lawson, Max Verstappen's new teammate at Red Bull in 2025.
The 22-year-old New Zealander steps into the top-tier team after replacing Sergio Perez, who was ousted following underwhelming performances.
Lawson, who completed parts of the 2023 and 2024 seasons with the junior team Racing Bulls, now faces significant pressure in his debut full season with Red Bull.
Marko, Red Bull's long-time advisor, has been candid about his expectations for the rookie.
"There will be no protection for the pup," the 81-year-old told Sport Bild.
"He may have only driven eleven grands prix for the Racing Bulls, but now he is sitting in a Red Bull."
Marko explained that while the team does not expect Lawson to achieve victories in his first season, they do have clear performance targets.
"He should score points regularly and be closer to Max than Checo was," Marko said. "0.2 to 0.3 seconds per lap would be a satisfactory window. We are not expecting any victories."
Lawson recently reflected on how Marko's tough mentorship style has prepared him for Formula 1.
"The phone calls from Helmut at 7am, putting the pressure on," Lawson told The Times. "The threat of losing your career at 16, if you don't perform in this next race—that really helped build me for Formula 1."
