Red Bull is exploring new options for Verstappen’s teammate in 2025, with Sainz, Colapinto, and Lawson leading the speculation.
Speculation is rife that Max Verstappen will have a surprise new teammate in 2025.
Rumours surrounding Sergio Perez’s future have circulated all season, yet he delivered a solid sprint performance, finishing eighth at Interlagos on Saturday and even setting the fastest lap.
“It’s not about a single result,” said Christian Horner, the team principal.
“We need both drivers. McLaren has two drivers at the front, as did Ferrari last weekend. We need both cars at the front. Checo understands this too.”
Team advisor Dr Helmut Marko stated on Friday that Perez would remain in place at least until the Abu Dhabi finale, but Horner insisted there’s “no deadline” for any decision.
“Nothing is set in stone at this point. Let’s see how things develop.”
Horner has clearly shifted his tone regarding Perez. Developments seemed to unfold at Interlagos, where Horner was spotted leaving the Williams hospitality area, sparking rumours of interest not only in Franco Colapinto but possibly also in Carlos Sainz.
Indeed, though it remains purely speculative at this stage, Horner is said to have proposed buying out the Spaniard’s contract from Williams, which would satisfy all parties—except, perhaps, James Vowles. Sainz would remain with a top team, while Colapinto could secure a 2025 seat with Williams.
Another scenario would see Colapinto signed to replace Perez at Red Bull Racing, though Red Bull’s existing investment in Liam Lawson adds some scepticism to this theory, even if Red Bull Argentina’s official account fuelled speculation with suggestive emojis on social media.
Horner does not hide his interest in Colapinto.
“We must keep an eye on the driver market. I believe Franco has the qualities to become a potential star in the future. He’s part of this new generation of talent, like Liam Lawson, who’s also doing an excellent job. Oliver Bearman performed brilliantly again this weekend. They’ve stepped up and done a great job so far.”
“Franco is an outstanding driver with considerable support, especially here. Our priority remains with our two current drivers, but we must also stay attentive to other talents.”
According to his father, Jos, Max Verstappen would be open to a new teammate.
“Max doesn’t mind. In the end, you have to win on your own, and he’s strong enough to do that, so it doesn’t matter much.”
“Lawson is doing very well. I think he should finish the season there (with RB F1) to build confidence, and then the team will need to decide what to do for next year.”
When asked specifically whether Lawson would make a good teammate for Max, Verstappen Senior replied, “I certainly wouldn’t rule it out. It’s obviously better for the team to have someone competitive—someone who pushes Max a bit further forward. That always helps. We’ll see.”
And Carlos Sainz?
“That scenario doesn’t seem credible to me at the moment.”
As for Dr. Marko, it’s a “no comment” for now. Horner appears to have taken control of this matter single-handedly, with the Austrian now having limited input under the new structure imposed by the Thai stakeholders. While Marko isn’t opposed to Sainz joining, he is notably frustrated at the consideration of Colapinto over Lawson.
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Red Bull Eyes Colapinto – Lawson for 2025 Verstappen Slot Red Bull Eyes Colapinto – Lawson for 2025 Verstappen Slot
