Surprise Red Bull comeback revealed for F1 star

red bull, racing bulls, isack hadjar, max verstappen, liam lawson, yuki tsunoda — Photo: © IMAGO

Formula 1

Surprise Red Bull comeback revealed for F1 star

Red Bull could be set for big changes ahead of the 2026 campaign

Kevin McKenna

Wednesday 16 July 2025 18:00

A former Red Bull star could be given a second chance in 2026, despite a brutal axe from the F1 team.

Three different drivers have occupied Red Bull's second seat in the past year, with Liam Lawson replacing Sergio Perez at the beginning of 2025; only to be axed two rounds into the current season.

The Kiwi has struggled to bounce back from that blow, collecting points in just two of his 10 outings with the team to date.

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Furthermore, Isack Hadjar is currently outperforming his more experienced team-mate, and questions had been asked whether Lawson would be able to retain his seat.

However, New Zealand media outlet, The Herald, have reported that he will at the very least be with Racing Bulls in 2026, with a surprise Red Bull comeback not completely off the table.

"Lawson’s future had been subject of speculation, given his long-term value to Red Bull if he was outside of their plans for the senior team.

"However, another promotion to Red Bull’s senior outfit remains on the cards, should the team back the Kiwi ahead of the rookie Frenchman.

"It is understood, though, that Red Bull want at least one experienced driver at Racing Bulls for 2026, as Formula One’s new regulations come into effect, with the potential to dramatically alter how competitive the championship will be."

Liam Lawson was ditched in favour of Yuki Tsunoda earlier this year

Red Bull's F1 lineup chaos

It promises to be a fascinating few months ahead for the entire Red Bull organisation, with the team in a period of transition following the shock dismissal of Christian Horner last week.

His exit created a domino effect which saw former Racing Bulls boss Laurent Mekies take his place with immediate effect, while Alan Permane has taken over from the Frenchman.

There also remains great uncertainty regarding Red Bull's driver lineup, with Yuki Tsunoda - brought in for Lawson - enduring a torrid time in 2025, thus placing his long-term future in doubt.

Defending champion Max Verstappen, meanwhile, is reportedly keen on exploring his options come the end of the season, with Mercedes in prime position to secure his signature should he opt for a change of scenery.

Red Bull Sergio Perez Liam Lawson Isack Hadjar Racing Bulls