2026 F1 Season Puts Lawson and Colapinto on the Hot Seat
Liam Lawson and Franco Colapinto are under immense pressure to perform in 2026. With new regulations and high expectations, failure to deliver could cost them their F1 seats.
The sweeping 2026 Formula 1 regulations are creating a high-pressure environment across the grid, but no drivers face more make-or-break seasons than Liam Lawson and Franco Colapinto. With new cars, engines, and two new teams, patience will be thin as organizations look for immediate results. For these two young drivers, 2026 isn't just about performance; it's about proving they belong in Formula 1's unforgiving landscape.
Why it matters:
The 2026 reset represents a rare opportunity for teams to reshape their futures, and driver lineups are a critical part of that equation. The intense scrutiny on Lawson and Colapinto highlights the ruthless nature of F1's junior systems and competitive midfield. Their fate will serve as a clear signal of how teams value proven experience versus raw potential during a period of massive technical upheaval.
The details:
- Liam Lawson (Racing Bulls): After a brief, unsuccessful promotion to Red Bull Racing in 2025, Lawson was demoted back to the senior team, where he was ultimately outscored by rookie teammate Isack Hadjar.
- He now faces immense pressure from within Red Bull's deep junior program, with highly-rated prospect Arvid Lindblad poised for a potential F1 seat. Lawson cannot afford to be beaten by another newcomer.
- Franco Colapinto (Alpine): The Argentine driver endured a dismal 2025 campaign, failing to score a single point in 18 races and consistently being outperformed by teammate Pierre Gasly.
- His season was marred by a recurring pace deficit and several incidents, raising serious questions about his readiness for F1. Alpine's switch to Mercedes power units in 2026 could be his last lifeline, offering a more competitive car to showcase his talent.
What's next:
The upcoming season is a final audition for both drivers. Lawson must use his familiarity with the Red Bull system to deliver clear, consistent results and decisively beat his teammates. For Colapinto, the improved Alpine package is his only chance to silence critics and prove his worth. Failure to deliver a significant step in performance for either will almost certainly result in them being replaced, a casualty of F1's relentless pursuit of excellence.