Red Bull are likely to postpone a decision on their driver line-up until the end of this season, with Yuki Tsunoda, Isaac Hajjar and Liam Lawson all facing uncertain futures.
There were suggestions that a call could take place before this weekend’s São Paulo Grand Prix, but sources in Mexico City have suggested to RACER that this is currently unlikely. No decision had been announced by the time each team arrived at Interlagos, so all three drivers waiting to learn their fates see the final four rounds as an opportunity to prove themselves.
For Tsunoda, he admits that means he is not as involved in the development of the 2026 car as teammate Max Verstappen, but he is prioritizing his own more immediate performance.
“I probably haven’t been as involved (as much) as Max,” Tsunoda said. “No, I’m just completely focused on 2025 right now, that’s it.
“I have to make the most of every race. I’m sure he’ll give me more feedback on next year’s car and everything, but what I’m doing now is a completely different situation for him and I have to continue to perform in the upcoming races. No, I think I’m just focused on this race.”
Sources say Hajar is being considered by Red Bull to replace Tsunoda in 2026 after a strong rookie season, but the Frenchman says there is no need to confirm plans early.
“Honestly, it’s something I’m used to,” Hajar said. “In my career I’ve never had a contract or anything announced before the end of the season, so I always had to keep my head down and keep pushing until the last lap. That’s nothing new for me and that’s the Red Bull way.”
If Hajjar is promoted, it is likely that either Tsunoda or Lawson will drive for the Racing Bulls alongside F2 talent Arvid Lindblad, but Lawson also said there have been no concrete talks yet about what 2026 will be for him.
“It’s just a small thing (that has been discussed since Mexico). I think we’re not thinking too much (about the future) and more focused on these races,” Lawson said. “I think it’s natural that all the decisions will be made towards the end of the year, but the message for us is the same as ever: obviously to perform.
“That’s what I’m trying to do, that’s what we’re all trying to do. I don’t think there’s anything deeper than that at this point. That’s going to define next year.”
Apart from the Red Bull and Racing Bulls seats, Alpine is currently the only team with an empty seat on next year’s grid, with Franco Colapinto expected to continue driving.
