Liam Lawson Prioritizes Performance Over Red Bull Return

Liam Lawson is gaining momentum with Racing Bulls ahead of the 2025 Formula 1 summer break. After a demotion from Red Bull Racing after just two races, the New Zealander has scored points in three of the last four races, including a career-best P6 at the Austrian Grand Prix. This article examines Lawson’s focus on consistent performance and his stance on a potential return to Red Bull in 2026. Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Lawson began 2025 alongside Max Verstappen at Red Bull but struggled, qualifying P18 in Australia (DNF) and P20 in China (P12). He was swiftly demoted to Racing Bulls, replaced by Yuki Tsunoda, who has since scored only seven points in seven races.

Back at Racing Bulls, Lawson initially trailed rookie teammate Isack Hadjar. However, he has since shown the form that earned him the Red Bull seat, scoring 14 points with P8 in Monaco, P6 in Austria, and points in Silverstone. He now sits just two points behind Hadjar, who hasn’t scored since Barcelona.

With Tsunoda, Lawson, and Hadjar’s contracts expiring in 2025, speculation about Red Bull’s 2026 line-up is rife. The 2026 F1 regulations, introducing new engine and chassis rules, make Lawson’s experience valuable for Racing Bulls. A New Zealand Herald report suggests he is likely to stay with Racing Bulls, possibly alongside Arvid Lindblad.

Lawson, however, dismisses talk of a Red Bull return. “Honestly, I’m not really thinking about my future,” he told media, including RacingNews365. “I’m focused on having some good races.” He acknowledges that three strong results in 12 races aren’t enough. “We need to do more of this, and then we’ll see,” he added.

Lawson faces pressure to outperform Hadjar, who has impressed with 16 points in the recent triple-header. Lawson’s aggressive style, seen in clashes with Fernando Alonso in the 2024 US sprint, has drawn both praise and criticism due to penalties in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

Racing Bulls’ team principal, Laurent Mekies, praises Lawson’s behind-the-scenes work, notably his defensive driving in Monaco, earning him the nickname “Liam The Shield” for protecting Hadjar’s points. With 10 races left, Lawson has opportunities to shine at tracks like Zandvoort.

Red Bull faces uncertainty with Christian Horner’s exit and Verstappen’s potential move to Mercedes in 2026. If Tsunoda leaves due to his Honda ties, which shift to Aston Martin, Lawson could be a strong candidate for Red Bull, provided he maintains consistency. What’s your take on Lawson’s F1 future? Comment below