Lawson: The most important thing for me is to race.

      At the FIA press conference in Japan, Liam Lawson explained how the previous week had been for him when he learned that he was going to return to the Racing Bulls team from Red Bull Racing.

      Liam Lawson: "I guess I didn't expect it to happen so early, and of course it wasn't my decision. But now I've got another chance and I have to make the most of it. I'm still racing in Formula 1, and this week, which was entirely devoted to preparing for the stage in Japan, turned out well. That's why I'm in a fighting mood, I want to get to work on the track as soon as possible.

      We were working on a simulator, although it's not the same as driving a real car, and how it behaves on the track won't really be revealed until tomorrow. Of course, it will take at least one session to adapt to VCARB 02, but we have three training sessions ahead of us on this track, and I intend to make the most of them.

      Since I know the Suzuka circuit well, to be honest, I expected from the very beginning that I would be able to prove myself this weekend, because I have already raced here. Besides, it's one of my favorite tracks, so I'm already looking forward to it.

      I feel confident in my abilities, because I don't think the Racing Bull car has changed that much compared to the one I rode last year. I hope I feel comfortable driving right away, but we'll find out tomorrow."

      When Liam was asked if he knew about the upcoming personnel changes in the Red Bull teams already in China, or if he was informed about it later, the New Zealand driver said: "In China, I had no idea about it at all – as far as I understand, the decision was made on Monday or Tuesday. That's when I found out about him. I guess it came as a surprise to all of us. I have already started preparing for the Japanese Grand Prix, but they called me and explained how the future events will develop.

      But I think we all know what Formula 1 is, and how quickly things can change here. After all, a year ago I was not a member of the main team of any of the teams, I watched the races from the sidelines and only dreamed of taking part in them. Then, towards the end of the year, I had the opportunity, and then I became a Red Bull Racing driver – in general, a lot of things have happened over the past four months.

      The most important thing for me is to race and be able to prove that I deserve a place in Formula 1. That's exactly what I'm trying to do, and that's also what I'm going to do this weekend."