Two Paths Open for Lawson at Red Bull

Lawson’s future at Red Bull/RB F1 nears decision, with two viable options remaining.

Even though the starting grid for 2025 is nearly complete, the F1 transfer season continues with much speculation.

At first glance, the only vacancy is at Sauber, owned by Audi, which so far has struggled to attract a top-level driver to team up with Nico Hulkenberg starting next year.

Last weekend in Monza, Audi F1’s new director, Mattia Binotto, stated that the team, based in Switzerland and Germany, is considering either an experienced driver or a rookie.

He made a special mention of the newcomers, Théo Pourchaire, already a Sauber reserve driver and the reigning Formula 2 champion, who participated in the IndyCar series in 2024, and the current F2 driver, Gabriel Bortoleto.

Pourchaire, 21, was in Monza for the Italian GP.

“Some say that I won the championship in my third year, and it doesn’t look great. But you have to remember that I won the title at 20. I was the youngest race winner in Formula 2 and Formula 3. I just need a chance, that’s all. This sport means everything to me. I just need a seat and a steering wheel.”

The only explanation for why Sauber is taking so long to sign a second driver is that they are waiting for Red Bull because Liam Lawson is still the number one option for the Audi F1 project.

Red Bull has only ten days, until September 15, before its option to extend Liam Lawson’s contract expires. According to terms confirmed by Dr. Marko, Red Bull must find him a seat in F1 (within one of its teams or elsewhere) or release him.

Lawson tested the Red Bull Racing and RB F1 cars at Monza this week for the 2025 Pirelli tire tests (photos), amid uncertainty about whether Red Bull will place him in one of its four cockpits next year, loan him out, or part ways with him.

Dr. Helmut Marko has recently downplayed the likelihood of a loan to Audi and a start at Red Bull Racing. The retention of Daniel Ricciardo at RB F1 beyond 2024 is rather unlikely. Thus, Lawson might take over Ricciardo’s spot, and the announcement could be made before Baku.

“I’m sure I will finish the rest of the season,” insisted the Australian driver in Monza.

As for 2025, he is not so sure. “No matter what is said. What matters is what my hands and feet do in the cockpit.”

“I don’t feel any additional pressure. I know what needs to be improved, but I’ve known Helmut for a long time. I know the system. Maybe that’s why there have been no tough discussions. I don’t feel any additional pressure from Helmut or the team.”

Isn’t that a sign that the decision is already made for him?

“Maybe. It’s up to you to draw your conclusions.”