Lawson assesses Red Bull super-sub stint as he returns to Racing Bulls

Liam Lawson is back in familiar surroundings this weekend, returning to the Racing Bulls cockpit for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix as Isack Hadjar has been passed fit to race. The New Zealander’s three-race cameo at Red Bull Racing delivered P7 at Zandvoort, P6 at Madrid, and a frustrating P14 at Monza.

Why it matters:

After being demoted from Red Bull in 2025 following just two races, Lawson got an unexpected chance to prove his worth. He insists he never doubted his ability, but the results serve as a reminder to the paddock—just as Red Bull weighs up its 2027 driver lineup.

The details:

• Lawson downplayed the point-proving narrative: “Maybe that's for you guys to decide. For me, I didn't come out of last year and question my ability to drive a race car.”
• On his stint: “Two of the weekends were strong. It would have been nice to have three, but I think overall, it was good.”
• Different beast: The Red Bull and Racing Bulls cars are completely different, with only the powertrain comparable. He also noticed operational differences: “Some things good that we do, some things good that they do.”
• Confidence unchanged: “None of that really changes. For me, it's now just readjusting to my car again. I'm excited to be back in it and carry on the fight.”

What's next:

Hadjar’s return coincides with confirmation he has kept his seat for 2027. Lawson wasn’t disappointed: “I wasn't meant to drive this year at Red Bull. So it was great to do those races, but it didn't change anything for next year.”

His own future is expected to be confirmed in the coming races, with F2 star Nikola Tsolov pushing for promotion. Lawson is focused on keeping his points streak alive to aid Racing Bulls’ constructors’ battle. “I feel in a better position than I have done in the past,” he said. “Last year was more difficult. This year we managed to find consistency. Hopefully that helps going into next year.”