Liam Lawson has been handed a reprieve – and a new contract – by Racing Bulls. The New Zealander has been a stand-out performer this season, spearheading the team’s charge to fifth in the constructors’ standings where they look likely to finish this season. However, despite his strong results, Lawson’s future has been the subject of constant speculation. Racing Bulls have contributed to that, CEO Peter Bayer recently stating that the team’s priority is to develop new drivers.
Lawson, 24, has already raced several times for the senior Red Bull team and the view of some within the organisation is that he has had his chance. Plus, they have the next talent in the pipeline, Nikola Tsolov, ready and waiting for his chance.
But the Bulgarian will have to be patient as, after months of deliberating, Racing Bulls have decided to retain Lawson for another season. He will continue to drive next year alongside Arvid Lindblad, 19, who has enjoyed a strong debut season in F1.
Lawson said: “I’m very happy to be continuing with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls next year. We’ve had a brilliant season together and the team has worked very hard to produce a fast car, which I’ve loved driving.
“It feels great to be part of a historic season for the team as we continue our fight for P5 in the constructors’ championship. It’s a testament to the hard work of everyone both at track, and back at the factory. I’m looking forward to carrying this moment forward with Arvid through to 2027. We’re building something super positive and I’m excited by what we can achieve together.”
Fresh doubt was cast over Lawson’s future earlier this week when it emerged Racing Bulls are testing Tsolov at the Hungaroring this week. The Bulgarian is behind the wheel again today after driving yesterday also, but it is now confirmed that his performance there has no bearing on their 2027 driver line-up.
Nothing has yet been communicated about what next year will look like for Tsolov, but it is understood he is likely to become a reserve driver for both Red Bull teams. This year, he is second in the Formula 2 standings, seven points behind leader Rafael Camara with two race weekends remaining.
Red Bull had no say on the decision as it was left to Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane, who has decided Lawson’s results this season could not be overlooked. He said: “We’re delighted to be continuing with Liam and Arvid for 2027. Both have demonstrated their ability and potential throughout the season.
“We’ve seen the progress they’ve made, both individually and as a pairing. I have no doubt that this is the best driver line-up for us, bringing a strong combination of experience and ambition. Together, we have a solid foundation to build on the progress made this year, continue pushing ourselves forward and take the next step towards achieving our ambitions in 2027.”
As for his own extension, British teenager Lindblad said: “I’m very happy to be continuing with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls in 2027. Looking back on my first season in Formula One, it’s been a truly special year, full of new experiences and learnings since the very first pre-season test. I’d like to thank everyone at VCARB and Red Bull for their trust and support.
“I’m incredibly grateful to everyone in the team for their hard work, commitment and collaboration throughout the season, and for the strong relationships we’ve built along the way. I can’t wait to get started next year, building on everything I’ve learned during my rookie season. It’s set to be an exciting year, and I look forward to continuing to drive alongside Liam.”