Red Bull is leaving Racing Bulls to choose its 2027 driver lineup. Liam Lawson’s strong results have bolstered his case for a seat, but team principal Alan Permane and the Faenza-based team will make the call—not Red Bull boss Laurent Mekies. Formula 2 driver Nikola Tsolov is also in contention.

By the Numbers
  • Lawson has scored 89 points this season—more than twice as many as any other midfield driver.
  • Over the past five rounds, Lawson has outperformed Arvid Lindblad in qualifying and races.
  • Lawson finished seventh in Brazil, 36 seconds ahead of the next-best midfield driver.
Yes, But

Lawson’s recent form strengthens his case, and Permane has hinted he would like to keep him. But Racing Bulls is weighing the options, including Tsolov, and Mekies says Red Bull won’t make the decision for the team.

State of Play
  • Lindblad is expected to return for a second season.
  • Lawson and Tsolov are competing for the remaining seat.
  • Permane and Racing Bulls have the final say; Mekies says there is no need to rush.
Bottom Line

Lawson has made a strong case on track, but his 2027 future rests with Racing Bulls—not Red Bull’s leadership.