Liam Lawson assesses Red Bull 'risk' after surprising call-up

Liam Lawson has played down the significance of the “risk” he is taking by stepping into the Red Bull seat once again.

The New Zealander has been called up to replace Isack Hadjar, who suffered a wrist injury during the summer break.

It marks Lawson's second promotion to Red Bull, with the previous occurrence lasting just two races at the start of 2025 as a duo of disappointing performances saw him dropped back to the sister team.

His latest venture at Red Bull comes amid a strong campaign with Racing Bulls, with eight top-10 finishes in the opening 11 rounds.

But having suffered during his last stint at the senior team, Lawson asserted he is only feeling excitement for the latest opportunity.

“Obviously I've spoken to Max [Verstappen],” Lawson told media including RacingNews365. “I've spoken to him plenty of times as well in the past,” he said.

“I'm sure I will be looking at a lot of what he's doing tomorrow. I have his simulator stuff as well as a reference to look at. 

“In terms of it maybe being a risk, I don't know... it's a unique situation to be in.

“It's been a great year so far in my car, but at the same time, I'm excited for the opportunity this weekend to drive something different, to be back with this team, even if it's for just a weekend.”

Lawson's vacant seat at Racing Bulls has been taken up by Yuki Tsunoda, who has returned after being dropped by Red Bull at the end of 2025.

The rotation comes as the sport returns from the summer shutdown, with Lawson detailing that he got the surprising news while on an aeroplane as he returned to the UK.

“Monday, I literally landed, I hadn't even got off the plane,” Lawson said when asked when he learned of a potential switch-up.

“I basically came from being on break and landed in the UK for what I thought was going to be VCARB prep. 

“Alan called me and basically told me what was going on, so my week changed pretty quickly.”

Never miss a thing from the Formula 1 season! Add the 2026 F1 schedule to your calendar at the touch of a button. Subscribe below and put the dates and times of every race directly on your PC or smartphone, so you don't miss a second from the new season.

Download the F1 calendar Download the F1 calendar