Lawson Retains Racing Bulls Seat Amidst Overwhelming Fan Support

Liam Lawson will return to Racing Bulls for the 2026 season, securing his place on the grid after a tumultuous year. The young Kiwi driver's campaign saw a brief, high-profile stint at Red Bull followed by a challenging return to the senior team, where he eventually fought to prove his worth and earn a new contract.

Why it matters:

Lawson's retention is a significant vote of confidence from Red Bull management after a rocky season that saw him swapped in and out of the senior team. It solidifies the team's 2026 driver lineup, placing him in a clear leadership role alongside a rookie, and highlights the intense pressure within the Red Bull driver program where a few races can define a career trajectory.

The details:

• A rollercoaster 2025: Lawson began the season as Max Verstappen's teammate at Red Bull but was demoted to Racing Bulls after just two Grands Prix.
• Initial struggles: His start back at Racing Bulls was difficult, failing to score points until his sixth race with the team, where he finished P8 in Monaco.
• Strong recovery: He ultimately secured seven points-scoring finishes, building a case for his retention late in the season.
• Fan validation: A recent poll revealed that an overwhelming 91.36% of respondents believe Lawson deserved his place on the 2026 grid, validating the team's decision in the court of public opinion.
• The alternative: Only 5.05% of voters favored a return for Yuki Tsunoda, who struggled after replacing Lawson at Red Bull and will serve as the team's reserve driver for 2026.

Looking Ahead:

The 2026 season presents a clean slate and a crucial opportunity for Lawson. He will be partnered by rookie Arvid Lindblad, placing the onus on him to be the team's consistent points-scorer and mentor. After the ups and downs of 2025, Lawson will be aiming to deliver a stable and strong performance to cement his long-term future within the Red Bull family.