Liam Lawson Reveals When Racing Bulls Made 2026 F1 Decision

Liam Lawson has revealed that he learned of Racing Bulls' decision to retain him for the 2026 F1 season only after the Qatar Grand Prix weekend. Lawson will step into a team leader role, partnering with rookie Arvid Lindblad, marking his first full season with the team under the new regulations.

Why it matters:

Lawson's confirmation for the 2026 season ends speculation about his future and signals Racing Bulls' long-term strategy. Placing him in a leadership role alongside a rookie underscores the team's confidence in his potential and ability to guide the team through a significant regulatory shift, which could be pivotal for their competitiveness.

The Details:

• Lawson was informed of Racing Bulls' decision after the Lusail weekend, specifically following the race in Qatar, by team principal Alan Permane.
• He had actively sought information throughout the weekend but was only told post-race, describing the moment as "cool."
• Pressure and Uncertainty: Lawson acknowledged the difficulty of the pressure, stating he's "been through it a few times before," referencing similar experiences at the end of previous seasons and his time as a reserve driver aiming for an F1 seat.
  • He emphasized that not knowing his future for certain is "not new" in Formula 1 until a driver is truly established.
• New Role and Preparation: Lawson expressed excitement about his new position, particularly the opportunity to have a full pre-season with the team.
  • This preparation will be crucial for adapting to the significant regulatory changes coming in 2026.
• Team Leader Duties: Lawson will assume team leader responsibilities, mentoring rookie Arvid Lindblad, highlighting Racing Bulls' investment in a youth-centric future.

What's next:

Lawson's full-season debut in 2026, coupled with the new regulations, presents a significant challenge and opportunity. His experience and leadership will be vital as Racing Bulls aims to adapt quickly to the new technical landscape and establish a competitive foundation for the future. The pre-season will be critical for him to gel with the team and prepare for the demands of leading their charge into a new era of F1.