Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane has refused to speculate on whether Liam Lawson would be first in line to replace Max Verstappen if the reigning world champion leaves Red Bull after the 2026 season.
Although Verstappen has been linked with a potential move away from Red Bull, recent reports suggest he is now expected to remain with the team. However, the Dutchman has yet to publicly confirm his plans for the 2027 campaign.
Lawson and highly rated youngster Arvid Lindblad are both viewed as potential internal candidates should Red Bull need a replacement. The team has traditionally promoted drivers from within its junior programme, with Mark Webber and Sergio Perez the only exceptions since Red Bull entered Formula 1.
Permane insisted any decision on Red Bull’s future driver lineup rests with team principal Laurent Mekies.
“Max doesn’t drive for me, so it’s a question for Laurent,” Permane said. “If he believes Liam or Arvid is ready for that challenge, we’ll fully support them. But I don’t want to speculate on who it could be or whether another driver could be involved if Max leaves.”
With Verstappen’s future still unconfirmed, Racing Bulls are remaining focused on the present while leaving any potential driver changes to Red Bull’s senior management.
