Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda’s careers at Red Bull Racing are looking increasingly uncertain now, with the announcement of Isack Hadjar being promoted to the team for next season. Both drivers have faced challenges this year amid stiff competition and changing seats, but with fresh talent like Isack Hadjar and Arvid Lindblad rising through the ranks, their own future seems to be in danger now. So, what are the possibilities? Let’s see.
Why Their Red Bull Future Is in Danger
Liam Lawson started the 2025 season with Red Bull but was quickly swapped out after just two races. His performances, while promising in lower categories, didn’t translate immediately at the top level with Red Bull. Red Bull’s boss, Christian Horner, said the team prefers drivers who quickly adapt and score points, and Lawson struggled to meet those demands early on, leading to his return to Red Bull’s sister team Racing Bulls.
On the other hand, Yuki Tsunoda, who replaced Lawson mid-season, showed some progress but has struggled to consistently deliver the results expected for a top team. Despite Honda’s strong backing, Tsunoda’s points tally and race pace have left the team uncertain about his long-term fit for Red Bull Racing.
Isack Hadjar and Arvid Lindblad: Possibilities
French driver Isack Hadjar, currently racing with Racing Bulls, has been promoted to Red Bull Racing for 2026. Hadjar has impressed this season with steady points finishes and even a podium, proving his maturity and speed. He currently ranks ninth in the drivers’ standings, far ahead of Yuki Tsunoda, making him a logical choice to partner Max Verstappen next year.
Meanwhile, Arvid Lindblad, another talented Red Bull Junior Team driver excelling in Formula 2, is expected to join Racing Bulls, potentially taking up the seat vacated by Hadjar’s promotion. Lindblad’s quick rise and recent successes make him a key part of Red Bull’s plans to keep fresh young talent feeding into the main team.
Will Lawson and Tsunoda Be on the 2026 Grid?
Given the current team strategies, it looks unlikely that either Liam Lawson or Yuki Tsunoda will be on the Red Bull Racing grid in 2026. Tsunoda’s contract ends with the 2025 season, and he openly acknowledges his future depends on Red Bull’s decision after a tough season adapting to the RB21 car. Liam Lawson, after his demotion back to Racing Bulls, appears focused on rebuilding momentum there, but the path back to the senior Red Bull seat is narrow with Hadjar’s rise.
However, there is still a chance for both drivers to continue in Formula 1 through other teams, provided seats open up elsewhere. Red Bull’s juniors often attract interest around the paddock, so a move to teams hungry for competitive drivers could be on the cards. But as of now, the pressure is high, and the next few months will be critical for both Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda.
Also read: Isack Hadjar Gets Promoted To Red Bull For 2026
