Red Bull Hopeful Liam Lawson Praised for Verstappen-like Boldness, But Lacks Consistency
Liam Lawson is being praised for his bold, Max Verstappen-like driving style, but his F1 future with Red Bull hinges on consistency. Despite a strong defensive drive in Brazil, Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko notes Lawson's performances are not yet consistent enough, potentially hindering his chances against Isack Hadjar for a 2026 seat. The decision is expected before the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, with Lawson fighting to secure any F1 spot.
Liam Lawson has received high praise for his 'Max Verstappen-like' attitude and 'boldness,' but questions remain about whether this will secure his future with Red Bull. Despite a strong defensive drive at the Brazilian Grand Prix, consistency issues may prevent him from surpassing Isack Hadjar in the team's crucial F1 2026 driver decision.
Why it matters:
Red Bull's junior program is notoriously competitive, and the battle for a 2026 F1 seat is heating up. Lawson's potential, if harnessed consistently, could make him a significant asset. However, Red Bull prioritizes unwavering performance, making every race critical for hopefuls like Lawson and Hadjar as they vie for a coveted spot in Formula 1's top tier.
The Details:
- Verstappen-esque Qualities: Former F1 driver Christijan Albers lauded Lawson for his aggressive, no-holds-barred approach on track, comparing his 'boldness' to four-time World Champion Max Verstappen. Albers noted, "He is not afraid, he really doesn't care about anything. I mean, if something happens on the track, his involvement is usually 80 percent."
- Brazilian GP Highlight: Lawson showcased a 'Ministry of defence' drive in Brazil, completing an epic 52-lap stint on medium tires to secure seventh place, fending off four drivers in the final laps. This performance earned him accolades from his team, Racing Bulls.
- Inconsistency Concerns: Despite individual standout performances, Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko expressed concerns about Lawson's lack of consistent performance. Marko stated in his Speedweek column, "Lawson has caught himself with the Racing Bulls, but his performances are still not consistent enough."
- Racing Bulls Support: Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane believes Lawson has the talent for Red Bull, stating, "I believe Liam has exceptional talent. He has worked hard with his engineers and the whole team." Permane acknowledges the need for continued development to achieve this dream.
- Incident Prone: Lawson has accumulated penalty points on four occasions this season, all for 'causing a collision,' and has been involved in several other incidents, particularly with teammate Yuki Tsunoda.
The Big Picture:
The 2026 driver lineup decision is a pivotal moment for Red Bull, as the new engine regulations will reset the playing field. The team is looking for drivers who can adapt quickly and consistently deliver under pressure. While Lawson's raw talent and aggressive driving style are evident, consistency remains the benchmark for securing a long-term future within the Red Bull family. The competition is fierce, with Hadjar's consistent 'ground speed' being a significant factor.
What's Next:
Red Bull is expected to finalize its 2026 driver lineup before the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, with a deadline set after the Las Vegas and Qatar events. Sources indicate that Isack Hadjar may already have the edge for a Red Bull seat, though an official agreement is not yet signed. Lawson is now fighting to retain his Racing Bulls seat against Yuki Tsunoda and Formula 2 driver Arvid Lindblad, making the upcoming races crucial for his F1 career.