Formula 1: What Lawson needs to do to keep his race seat for 2026
The 23-year-old was promoted to top team Red Bull Racing at the end of 2024, after a six-race stint last season at junior team Racing Bulls in replacement of Daniel Ricciardo.
But after just two underwhelming races to start the season, Lawson was dropped – swiftly demoted back to junior outfit Racing Bulls and replaced by Yuki Tsunoda, a switch many labelled as 'harsh'.
Since then, Lawson has been steadily rebuilding his confidence and gaining back his previously impressive form. And after many flashes of promise and, arguably, many unlucky weekends, Lawson's hard work was rewarded with a career-best sixth place finish at last week's Austrian Grand Prix- the home race of Red Bull.
While things are starting to look up for the Kiwi, Lawson still remains without a race seat for next year. And having only out-performed rookie teammate Isack Hadjar twice this season, Lawson could be at high-risk of missing out on a spot on next year's grid.
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With the season approaching the halfway point and many young, talented drivers waiting in the wings – including 17-year-old Red Bull Junior driver Arvid Lindblad – Lawson has a point to prove and a future to secure.
So, what can the Kiwi driver do to keep his race seat in the cut-throat world of Formula 1?
Points, points, and more points.
Midfield teams like Racing Bulls can't afford DNFs or anonymous weekends – and Lawson's path to a full-time seat relies on bringing the car home in the top 10 regularly.
His P8 finish in Monaco showcased his racecraft and composure under pressure. In a strategic team move to maximise points for teammate Isack Hadjar, Lawson managed to hold back more than half the field with his defensive driving, earning him the nickname Liam 'The Shield' Lawson.
: Liam Lawson of New Zealand driving the (30) Visa Cash App Racing Bulls VCARB 02 on track during the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2025 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Source: Getty)
He backed that up in Austria, defending two-time world champion Fernando Alonso in DRS range for almost the entire race, while managing his tyres through a tough one stop strategy.
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If Lawson can keep up performances like these, along with consistent Q3 appearances in qualifying, he'll not only boost his confidence but also prove indispensable to a team chasing Constructors' Championship points.
Outperforming his teammate
Lawson's teammate Isack Hadjar may be a rookie, but he has had a stand-out start to his Formula 1 career, impressing many with his maturity and ability to consistently perform in a midfield car.
The French driver has scored 21 points across the 11 races so far, while Lawson has only managed to score 12.
Lawson, who has more F1 race experience under his belt, can't afford to be outshone by the new kid on the block if he's hoping to keep his spot on the team for 2026.
Whether it's during qualifying or on race days, being the number one driver proves to be crucial now more than ever.
Beating Hadjar across the season – on pace, points, and racecraft – would solidify Lawson as a strong and reliable option for the team. But until he is able to do that consistently, Lawson may continue to remain in the shadow of his teammate.
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Keeping it clean on and off the track
Lawson's 'aggressive' driving style in Formula 1 has earned him a mix of both praise and criticism.
While it's provided many exciting and memorable race moments, it's also caused a few on-track incidents, including high-speed collisions and penalties that have at times jeopardised his race results.
Liam Lawson and Aston Martin's Fernando Alonso have a heated discussion after an on-track battle during the 2024 United States Grand Prix sprint race. (Source: Getty)
The Racing Bulls driver has also come under fire for several altercations with other drivers during his time in in the sport.
Most notably last season, where Lawson faced backlash after flipping the bird to Red Bull driver Sergio Perez on track at the Mexico City Grand Prix.
In a sport where consistency and control are prized just as highly as speed, Lawson needs to show he can channel that intensity more constructively.
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If Lawson is able to keep the aggression but dial down the recklessness, it could go long way toward proving he's ready for a long-term seat in Formula 1.
The bottom line?
Liam Lawson has got what it takes. Only 20 of the world's fastest drivers make it to Formula 1, but staying there is the real challenge.
With the British Grand Prix approaching, Lawson has a key window to back up his successful Austria result and make his mark.
If he can deliver when it counts and show he's matured as a driver, he'll give himself every chance of staying on the grid in 2026.
By Bianca Day
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