Max Verstappen currently faces the risk of a race ban, sitting just one penalty point away from an automatic suspension following recent events at the Barcelona Grand Prix. Given his precarious standing, the question arises: who would Red Bull turn to if Verstappen becomes unavailable? This article explores the potential replacement options for the four-time World Champion.
Potential Red Bull Drivers to Step In for Verstappen
Going first to Liam Lawson, this New Zealand driver has prior experience with Red Bull’s RB21 car, making him an immediate candidate. Although his debut season yielded mixed results, and he did not progress past Q1 in his initial Grand Prix outings, Lawson’s familiarity with the team and machinery could make him the logical short-term substitute. For Lawson, such an opportunity would also provide a chance to redeem himself after being initially dropped from the lineup.
Isack Hadjar represents another strong contender within Red Bull’s development ranks. The French rookie has impressed this season and is currently ninth in the championship standings with 21 points, trailing only Verstappen among Red Bull-affiliated drivers. Hadjar’s steady performances and quick adaptation to Formula 1 spotlight him as a promising racer capable of stepping into Verstappen’s seat effectively for a single race.
Ayumu Iwasa holds the position of reserve driver for Red Bull’s junior team, Racing Bulls, and carries the necessary super licence points to compete officially in Formula 1. Although he has yet to participate in a full Grand Prix, Iwasa has taken part in FP1 sessions and testing, including driving the RB21 during practice at the Bahrain Grand Prix. Red Bull might consider him for a substitute role as a means to reward his progress and maintain current driver stability without disrupting the main lineup.
Among the teenage talents, Arvid Lindblad emerges as an exciting prospect. The British-Swedish driver recently claimed victory in the Formula 2 feature race in Barcelona and has garnered significant backing from Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko. Lindblad’s acquisition of the required super licence points through participation in regional championships and his positive test outing with Racing Bulls position him as a compelling, though riskier, option for a one-off drive. The team would have to weigh the benefits of exposing such a young talent against the potential pressure and challenges of competing at the highest level in a Red Bull car.
Considering Former Team Members and Experienced Drivers
Red Bull could also look to Sergio Perez, who has extensive experience driving their current car alongside Verstappen throughout the season. As a well-established member of the team, Perez provides a reliable and known option should Verstappen be sidelined. However, his potential availability is uncertain due to rumors linking him with a future move to Cadillac, which might limit his willingness or ability to participate in a one-off F1 event given injury risks and contractual considerations.
Daniel Ricciardo also comes up in discussions as a fan-favorite former Red Bull driver, but a return seems improbable. Ricciardo has expressed that his Formula 1 career is over and has been focusing on life outside racing, including time spent on his farm in Perth. Additionally, he has not driven an F1 car since retiring nine months ago, decreasing the likelihood of a comeback, especially on short notice.
Implications and What Lies Ahead for Red Bull
Max Verstappen’s close brush with a race ban places Red Bull in a delicate position, requiring the team to have contingency plans in place for a sudden absence. Opting for a driver like Liam Lawson or Isack Hadjar would provide a balance between experience and familiarity, while Ayumu Iwasa or Arvid Lindblad represent promising investments in the team’s future talent pool. Should Red Bull tap into past drivers like Sergio Perez, the benefit would be instant experience but with potential logistical and contractual complexities.
Navigating Verstappen’s situation will be critical for Red Bull’s ability to maintain championship momentum. The selection of a substitute driver, if required, could serve as a glimpse into the team’s developmental strategy and willingness to promote young aspirants or rely on tested campaigners in times of crisis. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the deadline for penalty point expirations approaches on June 30.
