Liam Lawson could be on the verge of securing a significant breakthrough in his Formula 1 career, with reports suggesting Racing Bulls are close to extending his contract for the 2027 season. The New Zealander’s impressive performances have reportedly strengthened his position within the Red Bull-owned organisation, potentially bringing an end to months of uncertainty surrounding his future.
According to The Race, Lawson’s strong showing at the Brazilian Grand Prix has further convinced Racing Bulls that retaining him could be the right decision. An official announcement is reportedly expected before the Las Vegas Grand Prix, raising the possibility that the team could soon settle one of the most closely watched questions in the driver market.
BRAZILIAN GRAND PRIX PERFORMANCE COULD HAVE CHANGED EVERYTHING
Lawson’s performance at Interlagos appears to have played a crucial role in his contract situation.
After qualifying fifth, power unit penalties for George Russell and Charles Leclerc promoted him to third on the grid. The Racing Bulls driver then produced an impressive opening lap, briefly moving into second place behind the leading contenders.
Although he eventually finished seventh, the result demonstrated his ability to compete effectively against faster machinery and deliver valuable points for his team.
That performance may have provided exactly the evidence Racing Bulls needed when evaluating his future.
RACING BULLS REPORTEDLY PREPARES TO KEEP LAWSON
Retaining Lawson would represent an important decision for Racing Bulls, particularly after the uncertainty surrounding his previous promotion to Red Bull Racing.
The 24-year-old has experienced both the opportunity and pressure of competing alongside Max Verstappen before returning to the junior team.
His subsequent performances have helped rebuild his reputation, with consistency and improved racecraft becoming important parts of his case for another season.
A contract extension would provide Lawson with greater stability and allow him to concentrate on developing his performance rather than constantly answering questions about his future.
NIKOLA TSOLOV COULD RECEIVE A NEW OPPORTUNITY
The reported development also involves Nikola Tsolov, who is reportedly expected to become Racing Bulls’ reserve driver for 2027.
Such a move would give the Bulgarian youngster an opportunity to gain experience within Formula 1 while remaining connected to the Red Bull driver development programme.
For Racing Bulls, having a reserve driver capable of progressing through the organisation could provide additional flexibility as it plans for future seasons.
However, the reported arrangement should not automatically be interpreted as confirmation that Tsolov will receive a race seat in the near future.
RED BULL’S DRIVER MARKET COULD FINALLY SETTLE
Lawson’s potential contract extension would also help clarify the wider Red Bull driver situation.
The organisation has faced considerable scrutiny over its driver decisions, particularly following Lawson’s difficult spell at the senior team and the subsequent uncertainty surrounding Racing Bulls’ lineup.
Securing Lawson would allow Racing Bulls to retain an experienced competitor while continuing to develop younger talents through its reserve programme.
For the New Zealander, the opportunity would represent another important step towards establishing himself as a long-term Formula 1 driver.
- With an announcement reportedly expected before Las Vegas, the coming days could prove decisive for Lawson’s future.
