Liam Lawson Red Bull credentials under Rosberg scrutiny

Nico Rosberg has cast doubt on whether Liam Lawson truly belongs at Red Bull, questioning if the New Zealander can ever reach the level of Max Verstappen or Sebastian Vettel. The 2016 world champion's skepticism comes as Lawson waits to learn whether he'll keep his temporary Red Bull seat for Baku or return to Racing Bulls—and whether he'll even be on the F1 2027 grid.

Why it matters:

Red Bull's ruthless driver policy means only the very best survive alongside Verstappen. Rosberg's comments highlight the enormous pressure Lawson faces in his second chance, with rising stars like Arvid Lindblad and Isack Hadjar already being considered as alternatives. This audition could well decide the New Zealander's long-term future within the Red Bull program.

The details:

• Rosberg's bar: "The thing for Red Bull is they're looking for the next Max Verstappen and the next Sebastian Vettel," Rosberg told Sky F1. "Everything else is just not good enough."
• Comeback: After being dropped following two rounds in 2025, Lawson returned when Hadjar injured his wrist. He has since scored P7 at Zandvoort and P6 in Madrid, with Monza compromised by an engine penalty and race damage.
• Uncertain future: Racing Bulls is weighing its 2027 lineup among Lawson, Lindblad, and Formula 2 leader Nikola Tsolov, while a decision on Baku is expected late.

What's next:

Lawson remains upbeat about his second Red Bull stint. "I think overall we've had good speed," he said after Madrid. "It's got better each weekend." But with Rosberg's doubts echoing the paddock's questions, the next few weeks will be critical. Whether he gets another shot in Baku—or secures a 2027 seat at all—will depend on how convinced Red Bull is that he can reach their impossibly high standard.