Liam Lawson on Potential Red Bull F1 Return

Liam Lawson has stated that a return to Red Bull for the 2026 season was not on his mind, even as the team finalized its driver lineup. After starting the current campaign with Red Bull alongside Max Verstappen, Lawson was moved to Racing Bulls after only two races, where he initially struggled to adapt to the RB21 chassis.

Why it matters:

Lawson's journey reflects the intense pressure and rapid decision-making in Formula 1's driver market. His focus on readapting to Racing Bulls rather than pushing for a Red Bull return highlights the importance of consistent performance and comfort within a team, especially for young drivers aiming to secure a long-term future in the sport.

The details:

• Lawson began the current season with Red Bull but was moved to Racing Bulls after just two races due to difficulties adapting to the RB21. His replacement, Yuki Tsunoda, has also faced challenges with the car.
• Since returning to Racing Bulls, Lawson has regained his form and secured a seat with the team for the next season.
• He will be joined by fellow Red Bull junior driver Arvid Lindblad, while Isack Hadjar has been promoted to replace Tsunoda.
• Lawson confirmed to RacingNews365 that he "honestly" hadn't considered a return to Red Bull this year, especially given his initial struggles upon rejoining Racing Bulls.
• His priority was to "find my feet again and get used to this car" after missing early pre-season development and requiring mid-season adjustments to make the car more comfortable.

The big picture:

Red Bull's driver development program is known for its rigorous nature, often moving drivers between its main team and sister outfits to evaluate their potential. Lawson's experience underscores the immediate need for adaptability and performance, with little room for error. His decision to concentrate on his current team indicates a pragmatic approach to building a stable career in F1, rather than chasing a potentially premature move to a top team.

What's next:

With a confirmed seat at Racing Bulls for next season, Lawson can now fully focus on maximizing his performance and continuing his development. His strong showing could position him as a strong candidate for a future Red Bull seat, should an opportunity arise. For now, his priority remains demonstrating his capabilities and consistency with Racing Bulls, solidifying his place in Formula 1.