Lawson's Austria breakthrough rekindles Red Bull recall talk

Liam Lawson has reinvigorated his Formula One season with Racing Bulls, overcoming a difficult start at Red Bull to post a string of solid results and a notable breakthrough in Austria that has rekindled talk of a potential Red Bull recall. The New Zealand driver, who began 2025 in the senior Red Bull squad only to be demoted after two races, has since re-established himself as a credible midfield racer, aided by updates to the car and a renewed spring in his step.

Lawson’s early season arc was turbulent. He debuted alongside Max Verstappen before Red Bull opted to put Yuki Tsunoda in place at the senior team, citing the need to protect and develop the young driver. Returning to Racing Bulls, Lawson faced immediate adaptation to the VCARB 02, a car he had not tested prior to stepping back into the sister outfit. Team principal Alan Permane acknowledged that the transition was challenging for the rookie, noting that Lawson arrived back at the squad “a bit downbeat” and with the momentum of his Red Bull spell temporarily dampened.

The mood within Racing Bulls shifted as the team implemented targeted updates and supported Lawson’s rebuild. Permane highlighted the collective effort...