New Zealand’s Liam Lawson will race again in Formula 1 in 2026, after being confirmed as one of the drivers for the Racing Bulls team. He will be joined by young British racer Arvid Lindblad, who is moving up from Formula 2. The announcement puts an end to questions about Lawson’s future after a year full of ups and downs.
Lawson began the 2025 season with the top Red Bull team but was moved back to Racing Bulls after two difficult races. Since then, he has found better form, finishing fifth in Azerbaijan and sixth in Austria. He is currently 14th in the championship with 38 points.
Isack Hadjar, who was Lawson’s teammate this year, will move up to the main Red Bull team in 2026 to race alongside world champion Max Verstappen. Yuki Tsunoda, another Red Bull driver, will step back from racing but remain with the team as a reserve driver.
Racing Bulls Team Principal Alan Permane praised Lawson for his strong performance and calm attitude during tough moments. He also spoke highly of Lindblad, calling him one of the top young talents in the sport.
Lawson said he was excited to stay with the team and ready for the challenges ahead. “It’s going to be an exciting year,” he said, as he looks forward to a full pre-season with the Racing Bulls squad.
Lindblad, who has ties to New Zealand through his win in the 2025 Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Championship, is currently sixth in Formula 2 and will make his F1 debut in 2026.
