Lawson admits he has no Plan B if he loses Racing Bulls seat

The New Zealander's future is still up in the air despite an excellent season, and with the chance of big points today in Interlagos as he lines up third on the grid. Lawson had been linked as a potential replacement for Alex Albon at Williams next season, however those rumours have been quickly shot down. That leaves the New Zealander relying on one decision, and Red Bull are taking their time over it.

Speaking to F1 TV, Lawson said: "It's the end of the season. When something like this is pushed all the way to the end, you're left with not really any options, so it's not the easiest solution.

The 24-year-old also questioned what more Racing Bulls expect from him. "I don't know what else they want me to do, but yeah, it's just one of those things at the moment," he said. He added: "Obviously, I want to be racing in F1, and I'm trying to show my best every weekend. I feel like we've had a good year."

Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane walked away from Sky Sports' Ted Kravitz rather than answer a question about Liam Lawson's future after qualifying for the Brazilian Grand Prix. As Permane left, the pit lane reporter called after him: "They can't sack him now, can they?"

Kravitz was broadcasting from the team garages after the session when he came across Permane, who was filming while wrapping up a review of the qualifying session with the Racing Bulls media team.

Permane smiled, shook his head and left without answering. Lawson could pile more pressure on Racing Bulls to keep him on for next season with a strong result on Sunday.