Racing Bulls confirm driver line up for 2027 as driver misses out on seat
Photo: Race Pictures
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Racing Bulls have confirmed that Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad will remain with the team for the 2027 Formula 1 season, bringing an end to the uncertainty surrounding their driver line-up.
The decision rewards both drivers for their contributions to a season in which the team is fighting for a historic fifth place in the constructors’ championship.
Racing Bulls said the pair had helped deliver four consecutive double-points finishes, with team principal Alan Permane describing them as the best combination for the team as it looks to build on its progress.
The announcement also settles a question that had followed Lawson through the closing stages of the season. GPblog previously reported that the New Zealander had strengthened his case for a new deal with his performance at the Brazilian Grand Prix, although a final decision had yet to be made at that point.
Permane: ‘The best driver line-up for us’
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Permane had recently acknowledged that the wait for a decision was frustrating for the drivers. Speaking after the São Paulo race, he said he wanted the matter settled soon, having faced repeated questions about Lawson’s future.
Racing Bulls have now opted for continuity, keeping Lawson alongside Lindblad following the latter’s rookie campaign.
“We’re delighted to be continuing with Liam and Arvid for 2027,” Permane said in the team’s announcement. “Both have demonstrated their ability and potential throughout the season, and we’ve seen the progress they’ve made, both individually and as a pairing.
“I have no doubt that this is the best driver line-up for us, bringing a strong combination of experience and ambition.”
Permane added that the pairing gave Racing Bulls “a solid foundation” as they seek to take another step forward next season.
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Lawson targets more progress alongside Lindblad
Lawson said he had enjoyed driving the car Racing Bulls had produced and praised the work of those at the track and at the factory.
“I’m very happy to be continuing with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls next year,” he said. “We’ve had a brilliant season together and the team has worked very hard to produce a fast car, which I’ve loved driving.
“It feels great to be part of a historic season for the team as we continue our fight for P5 in the Constructors’ Championship.”
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The New Zealander’s seventh-place finish in Brazil had provided a timely reminder of his value to the team. Lindblad, meanwhile, fought from 18th on the grid to 11th in difficult conditions at Interlagos, a performance that also drew praise from Permane.
For Lindblad, the new agreement means an opportunity to build on the lessons of his first F1 season with familiar surroundings and a familiar teammate.
“Looking back on my first season in Formula One, it’s been a truly special year, full of new experiences and learnings since the very first pre-season test,” he said.
“I’d like to thank everyone at VCARB and Red Bull for their trust and support.”
With both seats now settled, Racing Bulls can focus on finishing their current campaign strongly before turning their attention to what Lawson and Lindblad can achieve together in 2027.
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