FAENZA, Italy — Liam Lawson will remain on the Formula 1 grid in 2027 after Racing Bulls confirmed that the New Zealander and teammate Arvid Lindblad will continue as its driver pairing, ending weeks of speculation over Lawson’s future with the team.
The announcement, made on Thursday, November 12, confirms that the team will retain its current pairing for another campaign. The decision brings an end to uncertainty surrounding Lawson, whose seat had come under scrutiny as Red Bull considered whether to promote its junior driver and Formula 2 contender Nikola Tsolov.
Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane said the team was pleased to continue with both drivers, pointing to their performances and development throughout the season. He described the combination as the strongest available option for the team, highlighting the balance of experience and ambition.
Lawson’s Strong Form Secures His Future
Lawson’s retention follows a strong run of performances that strengthened his case to remain in Formula 1. The 24-year-old has been one of Racing Bulls’ leading points scorers and delivered an impressive seventh-place finish at the São Paulo Grand Prix, after starting near the front of the field.
His results have helped Racing Bulls maintain fifth place in the Constructors’ Championship, a position that would represent a landmark achievement for the team. Reuters reported that Lawson has contributed a substantial share of the squad’s points this season, making him central to its push to finish among the leading midfield teams.
Lawson’s Formula 1 journey has included significant pressure. After joining Red Bull’s senior team at the start of 2025, he was moved back to Racing Bulls after just two races. The demotion raised questions about his long-term prospects, but his performances with the junior team have since helped restore confidence in his ability.
He also returned briefly to the senior Red Bull team during the current season, stepping in when Isack Hadjar was unavailable. His latest performances have reinforced the argument that consistency and experience are valuable to Racing Bulls as it seeks to build on its progress.
Lindblad Earns A Second Season
For Lindblad, the confirmation provides an opportunity to build on an encouraging debut season. The 19-year-old Briton entered the championship as the only rookie on the grid at the start of the campaign and has shown flashes of speed and maturity while adapting to Formula 1.
Keeping the same pairing gives Lindblad another year alongside a teammate with more experience at the top level. It also offers Racing Bulls continuity as the team develops its car and prepares for the next major phase of Formula 1 competition.
Lawson welcomed the decision, saying he was happy to continue with the team and proud to be part of its campaign. He said the squad had worked hard to produce a competitive car and that he was looking forward to carrying the momentum into 2027 with Lindblad.
Nikola Tsolov Moves Into Reserve Role
Although Tsolov will not take a full-time Racing Bulls seat next season, Red Bull has named the Bulgarian youngster as reserve driver for both of its Formula 1 teams. The 19-year-old is currently challenging for the Formula 2 title and has attracted attention through his performances and development opportunities with the Red Bull programme.
His reserve duties are expected to include simulator work, testing, tyre programmes and selected practice sessions. Red Bull says the development plan is intended to prepare him for a possible future race seat, keeping him closely involved with the organisation while he continues to build experience.
The decision reflects the competing demands within the Red Bull driver system: developing promising young talent while maintaining competitive results at the team’s second Formula 1 outfit. For now, Racing Bulls has opted for continuity, rewarding Lawson’s recent form and giving Lindblad another season to grow.
With the 2027 pairing settled, Lawson can turn his attention to finishing the current season strongly and helping Racing Bulls secure fifth in the Constructors’ Championship. The confirmation also gives both drivers a clearer platform to prepare for another year together.
Sources: Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, Reuters, Autosport and Sky Sports.