Liam Lawson has confirmed that his main objective is to continue his Formula 1 career within the Red Bull group next season, while remaining open to the possibility of competing with other teams in 2026. Although no contract extends beyond 2025, Lawson is assessing all avenues amid an evolving driver market.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Formula 1 Driver Landscape
Lawson, a New Zealander currently driving for the Red Bull-affiliated Racing Bulls team, achieved a career-best result by finishing fifth in the recent Azerbaijan Grand Prix. His strong performance included beating Yuki Tsunoda in a Red Bull Racing car, showcasing his potential on the Formula 1 grid.
As the 2025 season approaches, most seats at F1 teams are either finalized or nearing confirmation. Lawson’s teammates and fellow juniors, such as Isack Hadjar—who is tipped for a promotion—and Arvid Lindblad, are also in contention for seats next year. Alongside these, McLaren junior Alex Dunne has been mentioned as a possible candidate for a future drive, adding to the competition Lawson faces for securing his place.
Despite these pressures, Lawson’s primary focus remains within the Red Bull umbrella, either through a drive with Red Bull Racing or the Racing Bulls team. However, he is realistically considering that the ideal path to Formula 1 success may be broader than a single team affiliation.
Balancing Ambition with Realities on the Grid
When asked about his plans beyond 2025, Lawson emphasized that while he hopes to have clarity soon, the wider goal remains to become a race winner in Formula 1, regardless of the team.
“I think hopefully [within] the next few races,”
Lawson responded when questioned on when he expects more information about his 2026 future. “It’s obviously hard to know, but obviously we’re all chasing the dream.” – Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls Driver
Since joining the Red Bull junior ranks as a 17-year-old, Lawson’s ambition was clearly aimed at making it to Red Bull Racing. He now views his future objectives with a wider perspective.
“I think maybe – not that I forgot why I do it – but I think that was so much of the goal that I think it’s easier for me to sit back and realise now that the goal has always been winning, and getting to the top – and I think it’s not necessarily…it doesn’t need to be specific to where that is.”
– Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls Driver
Lawson’s openness to various opportunities reflects how past Red Bull juniors such as Alex Albon, Pierre Gasly, and Carlos Sainz have successfully forged competitive careers with different teams after progressing through the Red Bull system.
Considering the congested nature of the F1 grid for next season, Lawson acknowledges that many seats have been spoken for or are close to being decided. His current priority is to secure a spot within the Red Bull ecosystem, despite recognising limited alternatives.
“As drivers, always the main thing for us is to be in Formula 1, so we’re focused on securing a seat and, honestly, that’s my goal at the moment,”
Lawson stated. “So in terms of other teams, obviously, I think pretty much everyone’s nearly either locked in or has a pretty good idea of what they’re doing next year anyway so, right now it’s mostly talking to Red Bull and trying to secure a seat – and [that’s] where I am at the moment.” – Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls Driver
“Beyond that, I think right now, I think it’s at a point where I think most of them [seats] are pretty much gone, I would say.”
– Liam Lawson, Racing Bulls Driver
Currently, Lawson sits 13th in the drivers’ standings, trailing his Racing Bulls teammate Isack Hadjar by nine points. As the 2025 season progresses, his contract status and next-year options will become clearer, shaping the trajectory of his career.
Implications for Lawson and the Wider Formula 1 Grid
Liam Lawson’s situation highlights the competitive and uncertain nature of the Formula 1 driver market, where teams often finalize contracts well in advance. While Lawson aims to remain part of Red Bull’s racing family, his pragmatic approach acknowledges that winning opportunities might arise elsewhere.
The coming races and contract negotiations will be pivotal for Lawson as he seeks to solidify his position for 2026. His case reflects the broader dynamic for young drivers balancing loyalty, opportunity, and ambition within a highly competitive sport. The choices he makes could significantly influence his ability to reach winning status and maintain a long-term Formula 1 career.
