Racing Bulls plans to change its entire driver line-up

The recent news had the effect of a bombshell in the paddock. Despite the recent contract extensions of Sergio Perez and Yuki Tsunoda, the fluctuating performances of the Mexican and the promises of junior drivers are pushing Red Bull Racing to reassess its positions and engage in discussions with some reserve drivers.

Lawson and Hadjar in sight

Among the potential candidates, Liam Lawson and Isack Hadjar seem to be at the top of the list. New Zealander Lawson recently conducted a test for Red Bull, covering 200 km and being only two tenths of a second slower than the team’s reference time. This achievement is all the more impressive as he is not participating in any championship this season, a factor that Red Bull is taking into consideration for its selection of drivers for 2025.

Lawson also has experience in F1, having raced in several Grand Prix last year as a replacement for the injured Daniel Ricciardo. He then impressed his team with an excellent 9th place in Singapore, after eliminating Max Verstappen in qualifying. Consistent and error-free, Lawson is seen as a reliable driver, capable of bringing a lot to Red Bull Racing.

Isack Hadjar, for his part, is having an exceptional season in Formula 2 with Campos, with three wins in feature races that put him at the top of the drivers’ championship. His performances have caught the attention of Red Bull’s executives, including Christian Horner, who has praised the young Frenchman’s results.

« He is doing a good job, he had a good weekend. It’s good to see Isack in good shape, and Arvid Lindblad winning the Formula 3 race as well. Two exceptional talents revealing themselves. Isack is presenting his case for next year, which is why we are not in a rush to finalize the spots in the RB F1 team. There is always a chance. »

Red Bull’s director therefore hopes to recruit the Frenchman as early as next year. Negotiations were initiated following performances deemed untenable by Sergio Perez.

Clauses to respect for Perez

Recent information has revealed specific clauses in Sergio Perez’s contract, including a termination clause in case of poor results. One of the requirements is that Perez must not be more than 100 points behind Verstappen at the summer break. Currently 137 points behind the Dutchman, Perez does not meet this condition.

Another imperative is that he must not be more than five positions away from Verstappen in the drivers’ standings. Currently 6th, Perez is under pressure from Mercedes, who are having good results and could still drop him in the standings, compromising his position in the team.

Musical chairs

If these conditions are not met, Red Bull could dismiss Perez. While Lawson and Ricciardo were initially considered, the team is now turning to Yuki Tsunoda, despite his recent contract extension. The contracts of drivers affiliated with Red Bull allow the company to exchange them freely between Red Bull Racing and AlphaTauri, which the team could consider with Tsunoda, whose performances have been satisfactory this year.

This game of musical chairs could affect several drivers, including Perez and Ricciardo. However, the Australian seems confident about his future in F1, even though he doesn’t know yet where he could end up.

« No, no. I don’t want to be laid-back about it, because it means a lot to me, but I don’t know. Maybe I’m at a point where what has to happen will happen. And I’m going to put everything I can on the table in terms of effort and performance. And if that’s enough to secure me a seat, then great. If not, then okay. I’ve done all I could. But… I think in terms of musical chairs, if I focus on that, then I’m in trouble. I have to put all my attention here. It’s as simple as that. »

The choice is shaping up to be a tough one for Red Bull and promises to liven up the summer break. The drivers’ performances will be closely scrutinized, and the decisions to come could reshape the team for next season.