Surprise New Driver May Take Pérez's Red Bull Seat

A startling new candidate is poised to take over Sergio Pérez’s spot at Red Bull Racing for the 2026 F1 season.

Red Bull Eyes Future Formula 1 Team Prospects, with George Russell’s Name Surprisingly Surfacing

Red Bull is already looking ahead to its Formula 1 team’s future, and a surprising name has recently entered discussions: George Russell.

Currently a Mercedes driver, Russell’s contract runs until the end of the 2025 F1 season. However, according to Christian Horner, Red Bull Racing’s director, it would be senseless not to consider him for a future seat with the Austrian team.

This revelation could mark a turning point in the driver market for upcoming seasons.

Russell: A Prime Target for Red Bull

It was during last weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix that Christian Horner mentioned George Russell as a potential recruit for Red Bull. He believes it’s prudent to monitor this opportunity.

“George Russell’s contract ends in 2025, so it would be foolish not to consider him,” stated the Red Bull director.

Although Russell seems firmly rooted at Mercedes, the prospects of a transfer to Red Bull cannot be completely ruled out, especially in light of the fluctuating performances of Max Verstappen’s current teammate, Sergio Pérez.

Red Bull’s goal is clear: to continue dominating Formula 1. This could involve significant adjustments to its driver lineup, with Russell at the forefront. The British driver, known for his talent and consistency, could bring new momentum to the team.

The Case of Daniel Ricciardo and Liam Lawson’s Shadow

As discussions about Russell emerge, Red Bull also faces a crucial decision regarding Daniel Ricciardo’s future in Formula 1. Following an injury that sidelined him from racing, Ricciardo will apparently be replaced by Liam Lawson for the remaining six Grands Prix in the 2024 F1 calendar.

Meanwhile, Horner continues to emphasize that the 2025 lineup is under ongoing evaluation, with Lawson remaining a serious option, especially if he continues to perform at a high level.

Looking Beyond and the Red Bull Junior Program

While Red Bull typically promotes talent from its junior program, the team does not hesitate to look beyond to strengthen its roster. Besides George Russell, names like Franco Colapinto, Ollie Bearman, Kimi Antonelli, and Formula 2 leader Isack Hadjar are regularly mentioned. However, these young drivers must prove themselves to stand out against the competition.

Among them, Arvid Linblad, an emerging talent in Formula 3, is also attracting attention. Christian Horner seems convinced that the next generation of drivers will be crucial for Red Bull’s future, but he is open to recruiting established talents like Russell.

Liam Lawson: An Uncertain but Promising Future

Finally, the question of Liam Lawson continues to hover over Red Bull’s future. Some sources indicate that a clause in his contract might force the team to offer him a seat in 2025, at the risk of losing him. Christian Horner has not confirmed these speculations but acknowledges that Lawson’s performances are central to ongoing discussions.

With a three-week break before the next race, Red Bull has time to evaluate all its options. If Russell were to enter the race for a seat, the balance of power in Formula 1 could be upended after 2025.