Red Bull has confirmed that Liam Lawson will again replace Isack Hadjar at Red Bull for the Italian Grand Prix weekend as the Frenchman continues his recovery from a wrist injury.
Lawson stepped in at the Milton Keynes based outfit last time out in Zandvoort, where he took home points for the team in P7 on race day.
Now the New Zealander will get a second opportunity with the the team as Hadjar is set to sit out another round while his rehabilitation continues.
Yuki Tsunoda, meanwhile, is set to fill Lawson’s Racing Bulls seat for a second weekend, giving the Japanese driver another outing after losing his spot on the grid at the end of 2025.
Tsunoda spoke positively about his experience after returning to action at the Dutch Grand Prix having only just missed out on a point in P11.
Liam will drive alongside Max Verstappen at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza, while Isack continues to make encouraging progress following the wrist injury sustained during the summer break. The team is closely monitoring his rehabilitation and will take no unnecessary risks with his return to competition and wishes him a speedy recovery. A statement from Red Bull.
Red Bull has announced that they have appointed Gwen Lagrue as Director of the Red Bull Junior Programme for the 2027 season.
Lagrue will join the team next year having spent more than a decade with Mercedes, and will essentially replace Helmut Marko who left Red Bull at the end of 2025.
Red Bull’s Junior Programme has become one of the strongest on the Formula 1 grid over several decades, with the likes of Sebastian Vettel, Max Verstappen, Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon come through the ranks.
More recently, Arvid Lindblad was promoted to Racing Bulls this season, while F2 championship leader Nikola Tsolov is expected to move into the top tier of single seater racing in future.
Gwen is one of the very best talent developers in F1 and I know first-hand the expertise, leadership and passion he brings to developing young drivers. The Red Bull Junior Programme has always been a cornerstone of Red Bull’s success, and having Gwen lead it soon reflects the importance we continue to place on developing the next generation of F1 talent. We want to recognise another time today the extraordinary contribution Helmut Marko has made over more than two decades creating and leading the Junior Programme. The Junior Programme has become the benchmark in F1 because of his vision, commitment and ability to identify and develop exceptional talents and he deserves enormous credit for that. As we continue to build the next chapter of Oracle Red Bull Racing, attracting leaders of Gwen’s calibre is fundamental to achieving our ambitions. We’re strengthening our high-performance organisation with outstanding people in every part of the business, and Gwen is an important addition of that journey. Together, we will build on an incredibly strong foundation while continuing to evolve the programme for the future. Laurent Mekies, Team Principal.
Joining Oracle Red Bull Racing marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for me. After eleven memorable years at Mercedes, I felt this was the right moment to take on a new challenge and continue growing personally and professionally. The Red Bull Junior Programme is one of the most respected and successful driver development programmes in motorsport. It has produced some of the greatest talents F1 has ever seen, and it is a real honour to have the opportunity to lead such a talented group of people and help shape its next chapter. I’m looking forward to working closely with Laurent as well as the entire team and I am very thankful for this opportunity. Together, we have a fantastic framework to build on the programme’s remarkable legacy, continue to evolve it for the future, and identify, develop and prepare the next generation of F1 race winners and World Champions, following a pattern Oracle Red Bull Racing has successfully repeated over the past 20 years. Lagrue on the news.
Red Bull have confirmed that Isack Hadjar will not take part in this weekend’s Dutch Grand Prix, with Racing Bulls’ Liam Lawson stepping up to the top team as his replacement.
The Frenchman has sustained a wrist injury ahead of the season-resuming event at the Circuit Zandvoort – where team mate Max Verstappen will compete in his home race – thereby ruling him out of the round.
Hadjar, who currently sits eighth in the standings and was on a run of seven Grands Prix in the points, will be substituted for Lawson. The New Zealander previously had a stint at Red Bull for two rounds at the beginning of 2025 before he was demoted to their sister team – he has become a start of the midfield there and is ‘best of the rest’ in terms of points won.
His temporarily vacant seat will subsequently be filled by Yuki Tsunoda, another former Red Bull racer who lost his full-time drive at the end of last season and was reassigned to the role of test and reserve driver for both teams.
Hadjar has sustained a wrist injury during summer shutdown that will prevent him from racing at the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix. We will be welcoming back Lawson who will replace him in RB22 this weekend. The Team wishes Isack a speedy recovery and thanks Liam for stepping in on short notice. Red Bull’s Statement.
Max Verstappen’s future with Red Bull and in Formula 1 continues to be the subject of huge speculation.
In recent weeks rumours surrounding Verstappen’s fate has only intensified after it emerged ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix that the four-time world champion’s representatives had met with McLaren to hold “preliminary talks” about a possible deal.
Speculation about a potential bombshell announcement regard Verstappen has been rife ever since, particularly as F1 enters a key period of time when it comes to the driver market for 2027 and beyond.
So… what is actually going on? Here is everything we know about Verstappen’s future and the McLaren rumours.
Why did the meeting take place?
The meeting took place amid the backdrop of a hugely frustrating campaign for Verstappen. It has been a difficult season for Red Bull, leaving the 28 year old Dutchman currently out of contention for wins in a car that has largely been fourth best.
On top of Verstappen’s disappointment with Red Bull’s lack of competitiveness, he has been the biggest critic of F1’s new cars and engine regulations for 2026. Verstappen’s fierce attacks on the new rules left his future uncertain, though changes for 2027 and 2028 have led to him softening his stance after several threats to quit the sport altogether.
While reports of the meeting have sent the F1 rumour mill into overdrive, it is commonplace for drivers and their management to assess the market as they weigh up their next move. Verstappen could simply be testing the waters, and using Red Bull’s struggles as leverage as a bargaining tool to strengthen his own position within the team.
Alternatively, he could be seriously interested in a move and putting the early groundwork in place. Verstappen is under contract to Red Bull until the end of 2028 but has a performance clause in his exiting deal that could allow him to leave at the end of this year if he so wished.
However, it has recently come about that the clause in question does not come into effect until October, but Verstappen is on course to be in a position to trigger it based on his current position in the world championship and deficit to the top two.
Following the meeting, Red Bull took an encouraging step forward with a major upgrade at its home race in Austria. But two rear wing failures in the space of nine days have done little to improve the Dutchman’s mood.
After ending the British Grand Prix stuck in the gravel at Stowe, Verstappen was at his most annoyed to date, stating he is “fed up” with the ongoing woes.
How has McLaren responded?
McLaren, meanwhile, has been doing everything possible to downplay the rumours linking Verstappen with the team, though it has not gone as far as denying the reports.
In several interviews, McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown has stressed he is happy with his current driver line-up and has no plans to make any changes, with both reigning world champion Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri holding long-term contracts with the team.
Could a move to McLaren work?
There are two things to consider here. Firstly, and arguably the most important, is the fact that both Norris and Piastri are tied down to big deals with McLaren.
To facilitate a move for Verstappen, Brown would have to remove one of his drivers. It is hard to imagine he would let the reigning world champion go, leaving Piastri as the more likely candidate to be moved on in most people’s eyes.
Many have suggested that Piastri could be used as part of a direct swap with Verstappen and replace the Dutchman at Red Bull. But there is no indication from Piastri that he is looking to leave, or move to Red Bull.
It is generally accepted in F1 that driver contracts are not worth the paper they are written on. At the end of the day, if a team wants a driver badly enough, and has the financial might to make a deal happen, it will.
And if a four-time world champion and the driver of Verstappen’s calibre is available, a team would be foolish not to explore the possibility.
But McLaren must weigh up the pros and cons. It currently boasts a harmonious and successful driver pairing. Bringing Verstappen onboard would risk destabilising that, as well as threatening the policy of fairness that McLaren prides itself on.
After an intense start under the new regulations that made every lap in the new cars extra valuable for their full time drivers. Formula 1 teams have started to fulfil their required rookies outings at this weekend’s Barcelona Grand Prix.
Here are the drivers who have already been announced as participating in FP1 in the seventh round.
Leonardo Fornaroli – McLaren Replacing: Lando Norris
Back-to-back Formula 3/ Formula 2 Champion, Fornaroli, was picked up by McLaren as its reserve this year – and is now getting his first practice outing.
He could’ve hardly have done more in F3 and F2, but given he’s not racing this year, he faces the unenviable task of staying at the forefront of F1 teams’ minds, through impressing in practice will undeniably help.
Frederik Vesti – Mercedes Replacing: Kimi Antonelli
Vesti was the F2 runner-up three years ago, and his racing future now clearly lies in the endurance racing instead – where he has been forging a career with Cadillac.
He has established himself as a significant player in Mercedes F1 programmed, described by Toto Wolff, as “an important part of our development work with the W17”.
Ayumu Iwasa – Red Bull Replacing: Isack Hadjar
The 24 year old is increasingly becoming Red Bull’s go to practice driver across its two teams having had considerable success racing in Red Bull colours in various category – but never truly entering the frame for an F1 call-up.
He is the formal Racing Bulls test and reserve driver, and is currently working to defend his maiden title in the prestigious Super Formula category in Japan.
Dino Beganovic – Ferrari Replacing: Lewis Hamilton
Sixth – but only 20 points down on the standings leader – in F2 this year, 22 year old Beganovic will carry out his third practice outing with Ferrari in Barcelona.
Ferrari has two juniors on the cusp of F1 readiness in Beganovic and Rafa Camara but it’s line-up doesn’t appear likely to change in the immediate future.
Luke Browning – Williams Replacing: Alex Albon
Williams reserve Browning, will be in Albon’s car at Barcelona and then in Carlos Sainz’s car at the Red Bull Ring.
An outside F2 title contender last year in his rookie season, Browning has now switched to Super Formula this year and has been competitive.
He is clearly the F1-readiest prospect on Williams’ books, but will need to make a big impression in FP1 sessions to be first in line for a future seat.
Paul Aron – Audi Replacing: Nico Hulkenberg
Aron, is an Alpine reserve – but was already loaned by the English-French team to what was then Sauber for a pair of practice outings last year. This arrangement will continue again, at the Red Bull Ring.
After making waves as an F2 rookie in 2024, Aron didn’t race last year and has no full-time programme this year either – instead supporting Alpine’s efforts.
His prospects of an Alpine seat look far from straightforward given this would likely require Alpine to move on from Franco Colapinto – who has been on a good run of form.
Colton Herta – Cadillac Replacing: Sergio Perez
Ex-Indycar star Herta, will dovetail a first F1 practice outing with the full F2 round at Barcelona.
Cadillac and Herta have made no secret of their ambition to get him into an F1 seat, with the experience-gathering Indycar to F2 switch for this year aimed at no other goal but acquainting him with the tracks, the paddock and topping up his superlicence points tally.
Adjusting to F2 has proven tough – not unexpectedly so given Herta had left the European single-seater scene in 2026 and he is only 13th in the Standings at present.
Red Bull have announced a series of organisational changes within their technical department.
Several key figures have left Red Bull in recent years, including long-time boss Christian Horner, Motorsport Advisor Helmut Marko, Sporting Director Jonathan Wheatley, Chief Engineering Officer Rob Marshall, Head of Race Strategy Will Courtenay and Chief Designer Craig Skinner.
Most recently, it was confirmed that Max Verstappen’s race engineer, Gianpiero Lambiase, will leave Red Bull for rivals McLaren when his contract expires at the end of 2028.
With immediate effect, Ben Waterhouse takes on an expanded leadership role as Chief Performance and Design Engineer, with “overarching responsibility” across Design and Vehicle Performance – reporting to Technical Director Pierre Wache.
Waterhouse joined the Red Bull family from BMW Sauber back in 2014, initially serving as Deputy Technical Director at Scuderia Toro Rosso, and since 2017 has been Head of Performance Engineering at the main outfit.
Meanwhile, from July 1st, Andrea Landi will join Red Bull as Head of Performance reporting to Waterhouse.
Landi has previously acted as Deputy Head of Vehicle Performance at Ferrari and Deputy Technical Director at Racing Bulls.
We are pleased to announce a series of organisational changes within our technical department, aimed at reinforcing our focus on performance and innovation. pic.twitter.com/KlVtvmTA25
— Oracle Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) April 17, 2026
Max Verstappen’s long-time race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase will leave Red Bull when his current contract expires in 2028, with the Briton joining McLaren as Chief Racing Officer.
Lambiase – known to many as GP – has worked alongside Verstappen since the Dutchman was promoted to the team from the then-named Toro Rosso outfit in 2016, the pair going on to experience many highs and lows together in the years since.
Starting his F1 career as a data engineer for the Jordan team in 2005, Lambiase went on to become a race engineer during the squad’s guise as Force India before later moving to Red Bull in 2015.
Initially acting in the same role for Daniil Kvyat, it was in 2016 when Verstappen joined that Lambiase’s partnership with the four time World Champion began. More recently he also took on the role of Head of Racing at Red Bull while continuing to race engineer Verstappen.
However, his time at the team will soon be coming to a close with Red Bull first confirming he would be departing in 2028 before McLaren also confirmed he would be joining the Woking based team.
Lambiase is not the only figure from Red Bull to join McLaren in recent times, with Rob Marshall becoming Technical Director, Engineering & Design, in 2024 while Will Courtenay started in the role of Sporting Director at the beginning of 2026.
When Lambiase joins McLaren he will take on the role of Chief Racing Officer with a view to freeing up some of the duties managed by Team Principal Andrea Stella.
Oracle Red Bull Racing confirms that Gianpiero Lambiase will leave the team in 2028, when his current contract expires. ‘GP’ is a valued member of the team, which he joined in 2015. Until his planned departure, ‘GP’ continues in his roles as Head of Racing and as Race Engineer to Max Verstappen. The team and he are fully committed to add more success to our strong track record together. A Red Bull statement read.
McLaren Racing is pleased to announce that Gianpiero Lambiase will join the McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team as Chief Racing Officer, reporting into Team Principal, Andrea Stella. The role of the Chief Racing Officer already exists within the team’s structure with overall leadership of the race team. These duties are currently managed by Andrea Stella in addition to his role as Team Principal. Lambiase is the latest hire designed to strengthen and support the talent pool that exists at McLaren Mastercard, while also reaffirming the team’s long-term commitment to confirming its position as a Championship-winning team. The team’s ability to attract and secure top talent, like Lambiase, and previously Rob Marshall and Will Courtenay, alongside the retention and promotion of highly-talented people already within the team, is a testament to the strategic vision and culture that are integrally embodied in the McLaren Mastercard F1 Team under the leadership of Zak Brown and Andrea Stella, who are also both on long-term contracts. The team look forward to welcoming Gianpiero Lambiase when his existing contract ends, no later than 2028. A McLaren statement read.
Red Bull’s Chief Designer, Craig Skinner has left the Formula 1 team with immediate effect, the six time World Champions have confirmed.
Skinner joined Red Bull in 2006 and worked closely with Adrian Newey, who has since left to join Aston Martin, and Pierre Wache, who heads up Red Bull’s technical division.
He played a key role in Red Bull’s success when they won consecutive world titles between 2021 and 2024 with Max Verstappen.
Red Bull, under the leadership of Laurent Meikies, enjoyed a resurgence at the back end of last year following a raft of updates on the car, which in turn enabled Verstappen to win six of the last nine races and fight for the title until the season finale.
After 20 years with the team, Craig Skinner, our Chief Designer, will be leaving the Red Bull Technology team. Craig has been an integral part of our team and its success, and we would like to thank him for his hard work and commitment. The whole Red Bull team wishes him all the best for the future. Red Bull’s Statement.
Red Bull have unveiled their striking new livery for the 2026 Formula 1 season with an impressive event held in Michigan Central Station.
The Milton Keynes based team showcased their new look at a glittering reveal in Detroit, home of Ford who they are partnering with to create their first ever Formula 1 Power Unit, as Red Bull pilot Martin Sonka produced a remarkable stunt with his plane tearing the sheet off the car.
Their new livery marks a return to the gloss finish first seen when the energy drinks firm made their debut in the sport back in 2005.
The 2026 look for the RB22 features a “heritage white base” that the team said will “provide more depth and clarity and allow the iconic sun and bull logo to pop”.
Four time world champion, Max Verstappen will be joined by Isack Hadjar, who steps up from sister team Racing Bulls, this season. The duo will be looking to return the World Championship to Red Bull, who last won the Teams’ Championship in 2023.
Red Bull fought back to secure third in the Teams’ Championship last year, with Verstappen delivering an incredible late burst to challenge for the drivers’ title until the final race in Abu Dhabi.
Red Bull’s Motorsport Advisor, Helmut Marko has left his role with the Formula 1 team, the energy drinks firm has confirmed.
Marko has played a key role in the Red Bull Junior Programme and advised the operation regarding which drivers to bring through to Formula 1 with Racing Bulls and subsequently Red Bull.
During his two-decade affiliation with the company, he has overseen the progression of 20 drivers to Formula 1, including Max Verstappen and Sebastian Vettel who went on to win eight world titles between them when driving for Red Bull.
Arvid Lindblad is the most recent graduate, with the British racer stepping up to F1 with Racing Bulls this season.
It is very sad news that Helmut is leaving us. He has been such an integral part of our team and of Red Bull’s entire motor racing programme for more than two decades. This is therefore the end of a remarkably successful chapter. His departure will leave a void, and we will truly miss him. I would like to express my sincere gratitude for his unwavering support, not only over the past months, but also during my early days at Scuderia Toro Rosso. On a personal note, Helmut, along with [CEO] Oliver Mintzlaff, was the driving force behind bringing me back into the Red Bull family, first in Faenza and then this summer in my current role in Milton Keynes. Helmut is a real racer at heart, always pushing us to the limit, always prepared to take risks in pursuit of our goals. Laurent Mekies, Team Principal.
I have been involved in motorsport for six decades now, and the past 20-plus years at Red Bull have been an extraordinary and extremely successful journey. It has been a wonderful time that I have been able to help shape and share with so many talented people. Everything we have built and achieved together fills me with pride. Narrowly missing out on the World Championship this season has moved me deeply and made it clear to me that now is the right moment for me personally to end this very long, intense, and successful chapter. I wish the entire team continued success and am convinced that they will be fighting for both world championship titles again next year. Marko on the news.
Isack Hadjar will be stepping up to Red Bull in 2026 to partner Max Verstappen, with Arvid Lindblad making his Formula 1 debut with Racing Bulls alongside Liam Lawson.
Red Bull and Racing Bulls were the only teams to have free seats for 2026, though Hadjar has long been expected to replace Yuki Tsunoda at Red Bull alongside four-time World Champion Verstappen after a stellar rookie season.
Hadjar has scored points in 10 Grands Prix this season, including a superb maiden podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix.
Red Bull junior, Lindblad emerged as a candidate for promotion to Formula 1 with Racing Bulls after delivering some strong races in feeder series F2 and impressing when driving a Red Bull in Free Practice 1 outings at Silverstone and in Mexico.
That left Tsunoda and Lawson to fight for the remaining seat at Racing Bulls, with the latter coming out on top to secure a second full campaign with the team – Lawson having replaced Daniel Ricciardo at the team midway through 2024. While Tsunoda loses his seat on the grid, he will remain part of the family as a reserve driver for both Red Bull and Racing Bulls in 2026.
Yuki has raced in Red Bull colours for seven years now and I have had the pleasure of working with him at both Red Bull teams. Through his five seasons so far in Formula One, Yuki has matured into a complete racer, good over a single lap on Saturday and capable of exceptional starts and excellent race craft on Sunday. Everyone in the sport would agree it is impossible not to like Yuki, his personality is infectious, and he has become a very special part of the Red Bull family. On behalf of everyone at Red Bull, I thank him for what he has contributed so far and we know he will provide invaluable support to the 2026 projects moving forwards. As for Isack, in his first F1 season, he has displayed great maturity and proved to be a quick learner. Most importantly, he has demonstrated the raw speed that is the number one requirement in this sport. We believe Isack can thrive alongside Max and produce the magic on track! 2026 will be a huge challenge for the Team and for Red Bull Ford Powertrains, these are exciting times, and I am looking forward to seeing what we can do together. Laurent Mekies, CEO and Team Principal of Oracle Red Bull Racing.
I’m so grateful to Oracle Red Bull Racing for giving me the opportunity and trust to race at the highest level of Formula One. After all the hard work I have put in since joining the Junior Team, it’s such a great reward. I’ve had many ups and downs throughout my career, and they kept believing and pushing me. This year with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls has been absolutely amazing, I’ve learnt a lot and secured a maiden podium. I feel I’m much better as a racing driver and a person, due to the Team‘s support and preparation. I feel ready to go to Oracle Red Bull Racing and I am happy and proud they feel the same. It’s an awesome move, to work with the best and learn from Max is something I can’t wait for. Isack Hadjar on the promotion.
Firstly, a huge congratulations to Isack. He has delivered a truly outstanding season, demonstrating exceptional race-craft and consistency well beyond his experience. He has fully earned his step up to Red Bull Racing and we wish him nothing but the best as he takes on this exciting new challenge in his career – we are proud to have been part of the journey. Liam has shown impressive performance and professionalism throughout this year, he has excelled when conditions have been at their hardest and we look forward to building on this in 2026, while Arvid’s rapid progression marks him as one of the standout young talents in the sport. Together, they form a strong and dynamic pairing, one that embodies the ambition and youthful spirit of VCARB as we enter a transformative new era for Formula 1. Alan Permane, Racing Bulls Team Principal.
I’d like to thank everyone at VCARB for the opportunity. Since I started this journey at five years old, it was always my goal to be in Formula 1 so it’s a proud moment to take this step. I’m extremely grateful to the Red Bull Junior Programme and my personal team for their guidance, mentorship and belief; none of this would have been possible without their support. 2026 will be a big challenge and I know there’s a lot to learn, but I’m ready to work closely with the team and rise to it. I can’t wait to get started, it’s going to be an exciting year! Lindblad on joining Formula 1.
Alisha Palmowski and Rafaela Ferreira will be returning for their sophomore F1 Academy seasons next year, with the Red Bull Racing Pepe Jeans Academy Programme and the Visa Cash App Racing Bulls Academy Programme announcing that they have renewed the pair’s contracts.
Palmowski has enjoyed a strong rookie season, winning the opening race of the season in Shanghai. From there, the 19 year old British racer has scored three further podiums and is on course to finish fifth in the Drivers’ standings.
Ferreira’s first season racing outside Brazil has seen the 20 year old deliver five points-scoring finishes, including a best result so far of P5 in Shanghai Race 1.
We’re very excited that Alisha will be continuing her journey in F1 Academy with Red Bull Racing. She has had a very promising rookie season and is going from strength to strength. She embodies the Red Bull spirit and is a fantastic flagbearer for Red Bull Racing in F1 Academy. Laurent Mekies, CEO and Team Principal of Oracle Red Bull Racing.
I’m really excited to continue my F1 Academy journey with Red Bull Racing. I’ve loved being part of the Team this last year and can’t wait to continue working hard next season. Alisha Palmowski, Red Bull Racing Pepe Jeans Academy Programme driver on the news.
Everyone at VCARB is thrilled to have Rafa represent our team for another season. She has become a big part of our family over the last year, and both Alan and I are excited to see how she continues to develop going into her second season. Peter Bayer, CEO of Visa Cash App Racing Bulls.
Returning for another season in F1 Academy will give me the chance to further develop my skills as a driver and I’m honoured to represent the VCARB family in the series. Rafaela Ferreira, Visa Cash App Racing Bulld Ac
Red Bull and Racing Bulls have announced a joint season launch alongside Ford ahead of the 2026 campaign.
At the United States home of Ford in Detroit, Michigan on January 15th, the two teams will unveil their respective liveries for the next generation of cars, a season in which Red Bull Ford Powertrains will debut as both squads’ power unit manufacturer.
Red Bull have chosen Detroit to pay homage to Ford’s heritage ahead of the partnership’s maiden season together.
The launch of the Red Bull Ford Powertrains era represents not only a bold step into the future, but a powerful expression of what’s possible when world-class engineering, innovation, and passion come together. To see the energy, precision, and scale behind this project is inspiring. It’s the culmination of several years of collaboration between two great names in motorsport. We’re incredibly excited to begin this new chapter, driven by the same determination and excellence that defines both Ford and Red Bull. Laurent Mekies, CEO & Team Principal of Red Bull Racing.
Since we announced our return to F1 with Red Bull, the Ford team have been working night and day to get ready for 2026. But this is about so much more than just the racing. It is about how we use our learnings from F1 to make our cars and trucks better for our customers. What we will learn together with Red Bull will define the technologies of the future and that is what excites me most about this relationship. Jim Farley, President & CEO of Ford Motor Company added.
We’re incredibly excited to welcome Ford back into the world of Formula 1. With over 125 years of heritage, innovation, and absolute dedication to performance, Ford embodies the same competitive spirit that drives our team. This partnership brings together global brands united by a love of racing and a commitment to pushing boundaries. As a member of the Red Bull family and together with our title partners, Visa and Cash App, we see huge opportunities to join forces and connect with a new generation of fans and showcase the future of performance and mobility on a global stage. Launching this new era in Detroit, the birthplace of Ford, makes it all the more special. Peter Bayer, CEO of Racing Bulls.
Lando Norris soaked up the pressure of a nervy Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to finish on the podium and in turn secure the F1 Drivers’ Championship for the first time – following rivals Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri home.
Norris started the title-deciding race from second on the grid, between Red Bull racer Verstappen and McLaren teammate Piastri, knowing that finishing in the top three places would be enough to put the 2025 crown beyond doubt.
A bold Piastri move demoted Norris to third on the opening lap, before attacks from Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, a spell in traffic after his first pit stop and wheel-to-wheel moment with the other Red Bull of Yuki Tsunoda put the Brit under pressure.
Norris, though, dealt with everything that was thrown at him to cross the line in third and clinch the title over Verstappen and Piastri, who both delivered flawless races en route to the win and second position respectively.
At the end of it all, just two points separated Norris and Verstappen at the top of the World Championship standings, given the 10 point swing at the Yas Marina Circuit, with Piastri finishing further 11 points back.
The full top 10 are- P1: Verstappen, P2: Piastri, P3: Norris, P4: Leclerc, P5: Russell, P6: Alonso, P7: Ocon, P8: Hamilton, P9: Hulkenberg and P10: Stroll.
What a season for Mr Lando Norris aka the new WORLD CHAMPION!!!!! A really good race from the Brit, he kept it all cool, calm and collected exactly when he needed to, and most importantly trusted the process! A decent result from Piastri, unfortunately it wasn’t enough to get the championship but a really strong season he should be proud of!
A lovely result from Max, a win to round out the season, which has been a tough one for himself and the team but they really did turn it round, but maybe it was a little too late in the end… As for his teammate, Yuki’s last race in F1, the team used him with orders to slow Norris down but they just made themselves look bad with the un-sportsman like behaviour….
P4 for Leclerc, a good result to round out a difficult season, they seemed to have some pace during the race aswell. As for Hamilton a really good race up in the points again after a difficult starting position. It will be a season of lots of learning and where to go from here for next season for both drivers!
A decent result for Russell, seems like he dropped off in the race compared to his pace in qualifying, but the points helped solidified P2 in the Constructors.
P6 for Alonso, a great way to round out the season, especially with their performance over the last couple of races! The sames goes to Lance Stroll as he finished 10th so a double points finish for the team. Is this a sign of things to come in 2026?!
Oh God! I’ve not cried in a while. didn’t think I’d cry but I did. It’s a long journey. First of all, I want to say a big thanks to my guys, everyone at McLaren, my parents… I’m not crying! My mum, my dad, they were the ones who supported me since the beginning. It feels amazing. Now I know what Max feels like a little bit, and I want to congratulate Max and Oscar, my two biggest competitors all season. It’s been a pleasure to race against both of them, and I’ve learnt a lot from both of them as well. I’ve enjoyed it, it’s been a long year, but we did it, and I’m so proud of everyone. Norris on winning the Drivers’ Championship.
Now, that was our last race of the year in the world of Formula 1 and we do not have another race now until 6th to 8th of March but keep coming back for more updates!
Max Verstappen claimed a crucial victory in the Qatar Grand Prix from Oscar Piastri, with the title battle set to go down to the final round as Championship leader Lando Norris could only finish fourth.
Verstappen’s unlikely win was courtesy of McLaren’s alternative strategy which came as a consequence of an early Safety car intervention and an enforced 25 lap maximum stint level on all Pirelli tyre sets.
The Red Bull driver jumped Norris on the run to the first turn from P3 on the grid and shadowed poleman Piastri in the opening laps before a clash between Nico Hulkenberg and Pierre Gasly at Turn 1 several laps later turned the race on its head.
While all drivers pitted for the first of two mandatory pit stops in the 57 lap race, both Piastri and Norris remained out on track, which ultimately put them behind Verstappen in the final order.
The full top 10 are- P1: Verstappen, P2: Piastri, P3: Sainz, P4: Norris, P5: Antonelli, P6: Russell, P7: Alonso, P8: Leclerc, P9: Lawson and P10: Tsunoda.
What a result for Verstappen! This is what he needed to continue the championship fight and that he has done so, with a perfect strategy he absolutely stole the show and now the fight continues until the final race weekend!
A disappointing result, for Piastri, a weekend where he had everything together but got done over in the race by strategy, horrible weekend for him, and now his behind in the championship fight. As for Norris, another bad result for McLaren, he lost out to Verstappen at the start and then a bad strategy aswell meant he could only do the best finish of P4.
What a result for Carlos Sainz! P3 for the Williams driver, this confirmed their fifth place in the Constructors’ after a strong season so far! A brilliant drive from Sainz after qualifying really well.
A decent result for Mercedes, P5 for Antonelli and P6 for Russell, not the best result for them but still very good points in the bag for them!
P7 for Alonso, a decent points finish for the Spaniard, a pretty good weekend overall for the Aston Martin driver, it will be interesting to see how he does in the last race of the year!
Another disappointing weekend for Ferrari, P8 for Leclerc and P12 for Hamilton after making up quite a few spots since his qualifying position. This isn’t the end of the season the Italian team would’ve wanted.
This was an incredible race for us. We made the right call as a team to box under the Safety Car. That was smart. Of course, I’m super happy to win here and stay in the fight until the end. Incredible. I think [the pace] was a little bit offset because of it all, but for us I think it was a very strong race on a weekend where it was a little bit tough. We still won the race and that was the most important thing. Verstappen on the win.
Max Verstappen claimed an impressive victory in the Las Vegas Grand Prix, denying Lando Norris and reducing the McLaren driver’s lead in the standings to 42 points as Oscar Piastri finished fourth.
Verstappen was left in control of the 50 lap race on the streets of Las Vegas after the opening corners, passing poleman Norris when the Drivers’ Championship leader ran wide through Turn 1 having initially chopped across his title rival off the line.
Norris also slipped behind George Russell and only re-passed the Mercedes driver in the latter stages but was unable to mount a challenge on Verstappen, eventually limping home nearly 21 seconds adrift after nursing a late problem.
The full top 10 are- P1: Verstappen, P2: Norris, P3: Russell, P4: Piastri, P5: Antonelli, P6: Leclerc, P7: Sainz, P8: Hadjar, P9: Hulkenberg and P10: Hamilton.
What a result for Verstappen, this is what he would’ve wanted going into the race today! The minute he took the opportunity to lead he was gone and didn’t look back.
P2 for Norris and P4 for Piastri, a decent result for McLaren. Unfortunate for Lando to loose out on a couple of positions at the start of the race, but he did well to keep the momentum going and grab another position back. As for Piastri, a decent race, nothing amazing, he gained an extra place as Antonelli had a penalty which pushed him down to 5th and Piastri up to 4th.
For the Mercedes duo, a really good result for Russell, P3 for the Brit, which is needed in the fight in the constructors. As for Antonelli, what a drive by the Italian! Starting 17th to finish 5th! Honestly a really good drive, unfortunate for the penalty but one of the best drives his done so far.
P6 for Leclerc, a decent result but wasn’t anything wow, main thing was he kept out of trouble and still scored points. As for his teammate, Hamilton had a good drive to get into the points from starting 19th.
P7 for Sainz, a lovely result for him especially after starting third. A good result for the team especially as they fight it out for P5, which they have now built a 31 point gap between themselves and Racing Bulls in 6th.
We had 3 retirees, Alex Albon having collided with the back of Hamilton which required a new front wing, while Gabriel Bortoleto and Lance Stroll retired with damage after contact at Turn 1 on the opening lap.
In the race I think everyone was just trying to find a rhythm and see how much you could push, especially in the first stint because being on the more fragile tyre. It worked really well, normally the race is always a tough one for us – we are normally not that great on tyres, but today it seemed like we had that a little bit more under control and I could push a little bit more and that unlocked a bit more pace. I could stay out a bit longer and split basically the race in half. It definitely helped a lot and the car was working pretty well, much more to my liking and it was at the end quite a decent gap. It was just every lap feeling comfortable and not taking too much out of the tyre. Verstappen on the win and race.
Max Verstappen has claimed a dominant victory at the United States Grand Prix, the Red Bull driver converting pole position into a commanding win while Lando Norris beat Charles Leclerc to second place in a thrilling duel between the pair.
It had been a strong start to the race for Verstappen, the Dutchman holding the lead from pole position while the rest of the field got through Turn 1 much more cleanly than during Saturday’s action-packed Sprint.
Though questions remained in the early stages over strategy choices, all of the field opted for a one-stop plan – and this worked smoothly for Verstappen, who remained in P1 after his stop. And while he had to nurse his soft tyres home in the latter stages, the reining World Champion crossed the line with a margin of 7.959s to seal his fifth Grand Prix triumph of the season.
The full top 10 are- P1: Verstappen, P2: Norris, P3: Leclerc, P4: Hamilton, P5: Piastri, P6: Russell, P7: Tsunoda, P8: Hulkenberg, P9: Bearman and P10: Alonso.
What a result for Max Verstappen! A perfect weekend for the Dutchman, a dominant display which was needed in the fight for the Drivers’ Championship, if he keeps going the way his going, McLaren are going to be in BIG trouble…
P2 for Norris, a good race for him, it made up for his disappoint Sprint Race. He had a nice little battle with Leclerc, but it does make you think if he didn’t loose that position at the beginning of the race, would he of battled for the win with Max? As for the Championship leader, a weekend to forget for him, Piastri finished fifth, but he just didn’t seem to have any pace at all.
P3 and P4 for the Ferrari’s, Leclerc back on the podium! And a good showing for Hamilton in 4th. They both had a better race than the Sprint, they obviously set their car up for the race rather than the Sprint which they’ve done before.
A bit of a setback for the Mercedes of George Russell, P6 for him, again it didn’t seem like he had any pace in the race but the Sprint he did. A disappointing race for Antonelli, he got tagged by Sainz early on in the race, and he had to battle his way up the field.
Another points finish for Bearman, he has found something which just works at the minute and he is getting rewarded with points.
Not a good race for Williams, a DNF for Sainz after he got tangled with Antonelli and then for Albon he got spun round and had to work his way up to finish 14th.
Now we don’t have to wait too long for the next race weekend, as it’s Round 20 this weekend and we head to Mexico!
It was an unbelievable weekend for us. I knew that the race was not going to be super forward. If you look at the whole race, the pace between myself and Lando was really close. Just in that first stint was where we made the difference and I could eke out a bit of a gap, which is basically what we kept to the end. It wasn’t easy to manage the tyres for most of the stints, but we kept it in the lead and I’m just incredibly proud of everyone to be able to deliver a weekend like this. Verstappen on the win.
Max Verstappen has taken victory in a dramatic Sprint at the United States Grand Prix that saw both McLaren drivers retired on the opening lap after being caught up in a Turn 1 drama.
While Verstappen led cleanly away from pole position, the McLaren of Oscar Piastri was tagged by Nico Hulkenberg’s Kick Sauber into the first corner, which the sent the Australian into team mate Lando Norris.
This put both of the papaya’s cars out of the running, while Hulkenberg dropped down the order after sustaining damage. But there was no such trouble for Verstappen, who handled a challenge from Mercedes’ George Russell and two Safety Car phases – to win the Sprint.
The point scorers are- P1: Verstappen, P2: Russell, P3: Sainz, P4: Hamilton, P5: Leclerc, P6: Albon, P7: Tsunoda, P8: Antonelli.
A lovely result for Verstappen, he has now closed in 8 points closer to the McLaren boys, as their double DNF went in the Dutchman’s favour. The Red Bull car definitely seemed to have improved especially in recent races, which is good for the team and Max as they now look to score as many points as possible for the Drivers’ Championship.
A lovely result for George! He was close to Max at one point but after the lock-up from both drivers going off track too, his tyres were done. But still a good bunch of points for himself and the team.
P3 for Mr Carlos Sainz, a lovely little result for the Williams driver, he kept out of trouble and kept his head down and was rewarded with a 3rd position. As for his teammate, Albon had a good Sprint, P6 for him. So overall very good for Williams.
As for the Ferrari’s a good Sprint for them! P4 for Hamilton and P5 for Leclerc, they seem to be having some pace this weekend, they’ve started it off really well with a good amount of points to their names.
A Sprint to forget for McLaren, unfortunate for Norris to get tagged by Piastri but it also wasn’t Piastri’s fault either. They will be looking to score some good points tomorrow.
I mean, the start was good. Then, of course, there was the Safety Car because of the Turn 1 incident, and it took a few laps after the Safety Car to have decent pace, so we need to try to figure out what was going on there. Nevertheless, we won the Sprint, which is the most important thing. Looking for tomorrow, I do think we need to be a bit better in race trim to be able to fight the McLarens, because we haven’t seen anything from them. Verstappen on the news.
Max Verstappen claimed a lights-to-flag victory in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, while Lando Norris closed the gap to title rival Oscar Piastri to 25 points after the Drivers’ Championship leader crashed out on the opening lap.
Verstappen was never headed on the streets of Baku, leading all 51 laps and winning by over 14 seconds from Mercedes’ George Russell and Carlos Sainz who claimed his first podium for Williams having just lost out on pole position.
The full top 10 are- P1: Verstappen, P2: Russell, P3: Sainz, P4: Antonelli, P5: Lawson, P6: Tsunoda, P7: Norris, P8: Hamilton, P9: Leclerc and P10: Hadjar.
What a result for Max Verstappen, he done no wrong this weekend and his reward from that is he is starting to come into this title fight with Piastri and Norris. A few more races like that for the Dutchman and McLaren will start thinking they are in trouble (if they are not doing that already). As for Tsunoda, he finished 6th! A good result for the Japanese driver, he had a good weekend overall, he needs to start putting in performances like this to make sure he has a seat next year.
P2 for Russell! A great result for the Mercedes man, they had the pace this weekend which was good, they also got to capitalise on McLaren and Ferrari not being in the top five. This has benefited the team massively in the Constructors’ Championship as they move up a spot. A good result for Antonelli, P4, a shame for him to miss out on the podium but still a really good result.
P3 for Mr Carlos Sainz! What a result for Sainz and Williams, this just shows how much work they have put into the past couple of years and with Sainz you could see the result coming but he just had to work for it. This helps the team massively in the constructors putting them in fifth on 101 points, with a 29 point gap to Racing Bulls.
Talking of Racing Bulls, P5 for Liam Lawson. A good result from him, it’s a shame he couldn’t hold onto a podium position but still a really good showing from him.
A weekend to forget for McLaren, especially Piastri, hitting the wall in Qualifying and then crashing out on Lap 1 and ending his race there. As for Norris he had a bad race, not many moves being made.
Not a very good weekend for Ferrari either, P8 for Hamilton and P9 for Leclerc, they will be looking forward to Singapore as normally the Ferrari’s do well there.
I think this weekend has been incredible for us. Of course, last weekend was already great, but for us to win here again is just fantastic. I think also in the race, the car was working really well on both of the compounds. We had clean air all of the time and then you could look after your tyres, and it was pretty straightforward. Of course, it’s not easy around here. It was very windy today, so the car was always moving around a lot, but of course, I’m incredibly happy with this performance. Verstappen on the win.
Red Bull driver, Max Verstappen converted pole position into victory during Sunday’s Italian Grand Prix, leading home McLaren pair Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri after a dramatic start and end to proceedings at Monza.
Verstappen and Norris went wheel to wheel almost immediately when the lights went out, getting close to each other down the start/finish straight before the Dutchman skipped the first chicane to keep the lead.
Although Verstappen gave up the position to Norris at the start of the second lap to avoid a potential penalty, he was soon back on his rival’s tail and took only a couple more tours to reclaim P1 and surge clear.
From there, Verstappen appeared to have everything under control, managing the gap back to both McLarens across their opening stints, pitting earlier than Norris and Piastri to strengthen that advantage and then cruising to the chequered flag.
The full top 10 are- P1: Verstappen, P2: Norris, P3: Piastri, P4: Leclerc, P5: Russell, P6: Hamilton, P7: Albon, P8: Bortoleto, P9: Antonelli and P10: Hadjar.
What a result for Max Verstappen, a lovely weekend for the Dutchman, pole and the race win plus the Red Bull had some pace this weekend, which makes up for a disappointing home race.
Good result for McLaren, P2 for Norris and P3 for Piastri, unfortunate that they didn’t have the pace to battle Max, but also, the battle between themselves over the radio, I believe tensions are high now between the two drivers, which is not good at all.
P4 for Leclerc and P6 for Hamilton, a decent day for the Ferrari team on home soil, a shame they couldn’t get on the podium, but a good result for Hamilton, as he managed to get higher up than what he started.
P5 for Russell, nothing major from the Brit, but still a good amount of points in the bag, which is good as the team currently sits third in the Teams’ standings, and only 20 points away from Ferrari.
A good result from Albon, he started P14 and finished P7, a great day for him as his weekend wasn’t the best but he made up for it.
An unfortunate day for Nico Hulkenberg, he did not start, as he pilled into the pitlane on the formation lap as his car had a suspected hydraulic leak, big shame for him, he will be looking towards Baku.
Now we have a little break before the next round, which is Azerbaijan on the 19th to 21st September!
Red Bull Racing CEO and Team Principal Christian Horner is to exit the squad with immediate effect, with Racing Bulls team boss Laurent Mekies taking over.
Horner has held the role for some 20 years – the Briton leading Red Bull through their first F1 season back in 2005 and playing a key role in turning them from points scorers into World Champions.
Christian has overseen two periods of dominance by Red Bull, with Sebastian Vettel and the team winning four consecutive drivers’ and constructors’ championships from 2010 – 2013 and then with Max Verstappen winning the last four drivers’ championships from 2021 – 2024. With Red Bull being constructors’ champions in 2022 and 2023.
Horner’s last race in charge was Sunday’s British GP at Silverstone where Verstappen started on pole position but finished fifth after a spin in the wet.
Red Bull are currently fourth in the constructors’ standings, 365 points away from leaders McLaren, with Ferrari and Mercedes also ahead of them in the standings.
Verstappen has scored 187 of Red Bull’s 194 points this season. Rookie Liam Lawson was dropped as the Dutchman’s team-mate after just two races while Yuki Tsunoda has also struggled in the second Red Bull car.
Red Bull has released Christian Horner from his operational duties with effect from today (Wednesday 9 July 2025) and has appointed Laurent Mekies as CEO of Red Bull Racing. Oliver Mintzlaff, CEO Corporate Projects and Investments thanked Christian Horner for his exceptional work over the last 20 years. A Red Bull spokesperson.
We would like to thank Christian Horner for his exceptional work over the last 20 years. With his tireless commitment, experience, expertise and innovative thinking, he has been instrumental in establishing Red Bull Racing as one of the most successful and attractive teams in Formula 1. Thank you for everything, Christian, and you will forever remain an important part of our team history. Added Mintzlaff.
As part of the managerial reshuffle, current Racing Bulls Racing Director Alan Permane will be promoted to Team Principal at the sister outfit.
The last year and a half has been an absolute privilege to lead the team with Peter [Bayer, Racing Bulls CEO]. It has been an amazing adventure to contribute to the birth of Racing Bulls together with all our talented people. The spirit of the whole team is incredible, and I strongly believe that this is just the beginning. Alan is the perfect man to take over now and continue our path. He knows the team inside out and has always been an important pillar of our early successes. Mekies on the news.
I feel very honoured to take on the role as Team Principal and would like to thank Oliver and Helmut [Marko, Red Bull advisor] for the trust they have shown in me. I am looking forward to working with Peter to continue the good work that both him and Laurent have done in taking this team forward. This is a new challenge for me, but I know that I can count on the support of everyone within them. Permane on the news.
Max Verstappen has clinched pole position at the British Grand Prix, the Red Bull driver storming through with a stunning lap to put himself at the front of the grid ahead of the McLarens of Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris.
While Piastri had secured provisional pole during the first runs of Q3, the Australian made a mistake on his final effort and could not improve. But Verstappen put his lap together perfectly to go fastest on an effort of 1m 24.892s, putting himself 0.103s clear of Piastri’s McLaren.
The full top 10 are- Pole: Verstappen, P2: Piastri, P3: Norris, P4: Russell, P5: Hamilton, P6: Leclerc, P7: Antonelli, P8: Bearman, P9: Alonso and P10: Gasly. However, this isn’t the starting grid as Ollie Bearman has a 10 place grid penalty meaning he will start 18th and Antonelli has a 3 place grid penalty which means he will start from 10th, which promotes Alonso to 7th, Gasly 8th, and Sainz 9th.
A lovely result for Verstappen, I was quite surprised he got pole as he was complaining a lot about the car in Q1 and Q2, but this is the result he would’ve wanted and needed too. As for Tsunoda he has had a decent result! P11 for the Japanese driver, just outside of the top 10 however he is in the middle of the pack so he has to be very careful at the start.
A good result for McLaren P2 for Piastri and P3 for Norris, they are in a very good position for winning this race! Could Lando bring it home for the first time ever? I think his going to have a bit of competition for this win today…
A good result for George Russell, I feel like he went a bit under the radar with his P4 result, but I think that’s more because of his pace which hasn’t been as good as other weekend. Obviously his teammate starts P10, still a good position to score some decent points for the Silver Arrows.
A decent result for Ferrari, P5 for Hamilton and P6 for Lelcerc, it could’ve been a bit better of a result, especially as both cars have the pace. But, and key word being but, can you ever count Lewis Hamilton out of a British GP win or podium? It will definitely be an interesting race later, especially if we have some rain…
A good result for Alonso, P7 for the Aston Martin driver, he will be looking to score some good points this weekend.
The FIA World Motor Sport Council has confirmed that a request to grant F2 driver and Red Bull Junior Arvid Lindblad a Super Licence prior to his 18th birthday has been granted.
It was previously stated in the rules that, for a driver to obtain either a Friday practice Super Licence or a Super Licence to compete in a Grand Prix, they had to be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driving licence.
However, adjustments were made to the FIA International Sporting Code last year, removing the clause that necessitated a valid driving licence as well as adding the line: At the sole discretion of the FIA, a driver judged to have recently and consistently demonstrated outstanding ability and maturity in single-seater formula car competition may be granted a Super Licence at the age of 17 years old.
The tweak to the rules allowed for Kimi Antonelli – who did not pass his driving test until January of this year – to get his Super Licence last year and compete in FP1 sessions for Mercedes prior to making his full-time debut this season.
Now 17 year old Lindblad has become the latest youngster to be granted a Super Licence, meaning that he would be eligible to compete in an F1 race weekend.
The FIA has received a request to grant a Super Licence to Arvid Lindblad prior to his 18th birthday. After considering the information presented in support of this request, the World Council found that the driver has recently and consistently demonstrated outstanding ability and maturity in single-seater formula car competition and therefore approved the request. The FIA on the decision.
Lindblad is currently competing in his debut Formula 2 campaign for Campos Racing and sits third in the Drivers’ Championship, having achieved two race victories and one pole position so far.
Prior to this, the British driver finished fourth during his sole F3 season in 2024 after climbing the ranks in junior categories, a rise that saw him win the Macau F4 World Cup race at the end of 2023.
Max Verstappen has surged to an impressive second victory of the season at the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, the Dutchman having snatched P1 at the start before holding his position ahead of the McLaren pair in an eventful afternoon.
The race got underway in an exciting fashion as polesitter, Oscar Piastri initially launched well off the line – only for Verstappen to make a stunning overtake through the Tamburello chicane, resulting in the World Champion going on to build a lead in the laps that followed.
Piastri then joined a number of drivers who made an early pit stop, having stopped for the hard compound on Lap 14, but the call did not seem to work out the Australian.
As questions persisted over whether a one-stop or two-stop strategy was the way forward – with around half of the field remaining out following that earlier flurry of action in the pits for the other half.
The full top 10 are- P1: Verstappen, P2: Norris, P3: Piastri, P4: Hamilton, P5: Albon, P6: Leclerc, P7: Russell, P8: Sainz, P9: Hadjar and P10: Tsunoda.
What a result from Max Verstappen, a cool, calm and collected drive from the Dutchman. His strategy was spot on, and he didn’t fall for McLaren pitting Piastri early. As for his teammate, Tsunoda made up some good places from starting in the pit lane to finishing P10 and coming home with a point.
A double podium for McLaren, P2 for Norris and P3 for Piastri. A lovely result for the team, it’s a shame it wasn’t a win for the Papaya team, but Verstappen just ran away with the lead and there was no chance of battling him for it. But still a very good points haul for the team.
A lovely result from Hamilton! P4 for the Brit and it was his first Italian race as a Ferrari driver and he made up for a bad qualifying session. As for Leclerc his race wasn’t the best, he ran into quite a few problems along the road but he still managed to finish P6. Overall a decent points haul for the team.
P5 for Albon! What a great result from him! At one point, it almost looked like he was nearing the podium. But the main thing to take from that great result is how much they have improved! Sainz finished P8 aswell, so a very good weekend for the team.
P7 for Russell, not the best weekend for him, he was struggling a bit during the race. As well for his teammate, it went from bad to worse, Antonelli pulled over to the side as he had an issue and had to retire from his first home race. A big shame for the young rookie but he will bounce back.
Now we don’t have to wait too long for the next race as we are at the second race weekend of a triple header and we are headed to Monaco!
Max Verstappen delivered an incredible performance to clinch pole position in qualifying for the Miami Grand Prix. The reigning world champion going fastest from Lando Norris and Kimi Antonelli despite a slight error on his final run.
After Verstappen claimed provisional pole during the early runs of Q3 but just 0.003s from Norris, the Dutchman’s prospects during his closing effort looked to be at risk after a wobble in the first corner. The Red Bull man still went fastest on a 1m 26.204s, six-hundredths clear of Norris who apologised to his team for taking too much kerb on his lap.
The full top 10 are- Pole: Verstappen, P2: Norris, P3: Antonelli, P4: Piastri, P5: Russell, P6: Sainz, P7: Albon, P8: Leclerc, P9: Ocon and P10: Tsunoda.
What a result for the Dutchman! Just what he would’ve wanted going into the weekend, he will be looking to grab the win later on today and close in on the drivers’ championship. As for his teammate, Yuki Tsunoda finished qualifying in 10th. A lot better than the Sprint Qualifying, but still needs to do some work to be closer to his teammate.
A good result for Norris P2, it seems like his last lap really cost him, it’s still a good result, but I know he’d be kicking himself for the mistake. His teammate qualified fourth, a good result too. They will both be aiming for podiums / potential wins today.
Now onto Antonelli! The Italian is on fire this weekend, he has qualified third for the Grand Prix. He seems to have found really good form this weekend and its great to see. As for Russell, he seems to be struggling a lot this weekend, he still qualified 5th which isn’t too bad but it will be interesting to see how the race goes for him.
P6 for Carlos Sainz and P7 for Alex Albon, what a performance from the Williams boys! They have seemed to excel this weekend and it is great to see. Hopefully with a good strategy they can score some decent points.
P8 for Leclerc, not the best result for the Ferrari driver, and as for his teammate Hamilton qualified 12th. Poor performance from the team, but hopefully they have some strategies for both drivers to help them move up to grab those all important points.
Max Verstappen scored his first victory of the 2025 season with a masterful drive to P1 in the Japanese Grand Prix, the World Champion holding off the McLaren pair of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri to claim his fourth consecutive win at the Suzuka Circuit.
After making a strong start from pole position, Verstappen held a decent lead over the McLaren’s throughout the early stages. Drama then ensued during the pit stop phase when the Dutchman’s slightly slow stop saw Norris – who had pitted on the same lap – try to go side by side at the pit exit, resulting in the McLaren man having to take to the grass while Verstappen remained ahead.
While both drivers voiced their unhappiness about the incident over the team radio, the stewards opted not to investigate and Verstappen remained ahead of Norris as the race progressed, building a gap back to the Briton.
The full top 10 are- P1: Verstappen, P2: Norris, P3: Piastri, P4: Leclerc, P5: Russell, P6: Antonelli, P7: Hamilton, P8: Hadjar, P9: Albon and P10: Bearman.
What a great result from Verstappen and Red Bull! Their first win of the season and it all started from a lovely qualifying lap on Saturday and then the Dutchman just put everything together on Sunday to secure the win! As for his new teammate, Tsunoda, he finished 12th, just outside the points.
A lovely result from McLaren, P2 for Norris and P3 for Piastri a very strong weekend for both drivers, they were bringing the heat to Verstappen but it wasn’t enough to grab the win.
P4 for Leclerc! A lovely result for the Ferrari driver, especially after their horrible weekend in China, it’s unfortunate they couldn’t get on the podium but it was close enough. It was P7 for Hamilton, not too bad but definitely not the worse and still some points in the bag for the team.
P5 for Russell and P6 Antonelli, a decent weekend for the Mercedes boys. Antonelli seems to be settling in comfortably at the Silver Arrows, and is rewarded with points once again!
P8 for Hadjar! What a start of a season for him in his rookie campaign! He is doing well and I’m looking forward to seeing what he can do for the rest of the season.
Red Bull have revealed a special one-off livery that will adorn the RB21 during the Japanese Grand Prix weekend, with the team running a striking white and red design to honour the final year of their partnership with Honda.
In an event that will see Yuki Tsunoda step up as Max Verstappen’s new team mate in front of his home crowd – following the decision to swap the Japanese driver with Liam Lawson the latter returning to Racing Bulls – Red Bull’s challenger will pay tribute to Honda by sporting a design inspired by the RA272, which gave the engine manufacturer its inaugural win back in 1965.
The livery recreates the RA272’s Japanese flag motif, featuring the ‘H’ logo on the nose and the simple Honda logo on the rear of the bodywork, while a special logo commemorating the 60th anniversary of Honda’s debut victory will be displayed on the Red Bull and Racing Bulls cars during the weekend.
This is not the first time that Red Bull have raced in white, with the squad having previously run a special livery at the 2021 Turkish Grand Prix.
Our relationship with Honda deserves celebration, it has been one of continued success and brought the team one of the most triumphant and dominant periods in our history. Max has won four world titles with a Honda power unit, and the team have lifted two Constructors’ titles. In addition, Honda’s reliability enabled it to complete the most successful season in the sport’s history in 2023. This livery is a tribute to Honda’s success in the sport and the final year of what has been a thoroughly enjoyable partnership. I am looking forward to seeing it out on track. Horner on the special livery.
It is quite moving to see the RA272 tribute livery on the latest Red Bull Racing machine, in the final year of Honda and Red Bull’s partnership. Our successful path will continue to shine in the history of F1. Koji Watanabe, President of Honda Racing Corporation (HRC).
Red Bull have announced that Yuki Tsunoda will replace Liam Lawson at the senior Red Bull Racing team from the Japanese Grand Prix onwards, with the 24 year old getting the nod to replace Lawson following a difficult opening two races for the New Zealander.
Lawson raced alongside Tsunoda in the latter stages of 2024 after replacing Daniel Ricciardo at the then-name RB team, and his performances were enough to earn him a promotion to Red Bull, following the exit of Sergio Perez.
However, Lawson struggled to get to grips with the RB21 during the Australia and China Grand Prix weekends, crashing out in the former amid treacherous conditions before crossing the line in 15th in Shanghai, which then became 12th following three disqualifications for Leclerc, Hamilton and Gasly ahead.
Rumours then quickly mounted that the 23 year old could be replaced at the team as early as Round 3 in Japan, and now it has been confirmed that Tsunoda will fill Lawson’s seat when F1 returns to Suzuka on April 4th – 6th with Lawson returning to the Racing Bulls squad alongside rookie Isack Hadjar.
After making his debut for the then-named AlphaTauri squad back in 2021, Tsunoda has continued to develop as a driver across the years that have followed, the Japanese driver having outscored his recent team mates including Nyck de Vries and Daniel Ricciardo.
The 2024 season was one that Tsunoda heralded as “one of my best” after scoring 30 of his team’s 46 points across the season. He went on to make his test debut for Red Bull at the post-season test in Abu Dhabi – but it was subsequently confirmed that Lawson rather than Tsunoda.
Lawson, will be returning to Racing Bulls where he will partner with rookie Isack Hadjar – the situation mirroring the cases of Daniil Kvyat and Pierre Gasly who each returned to the sister outfit from Red Bull after three races into 2016 and 12 in 2019 respectively.
It has been difficult to see Liam struggle with the RB21 at the first two races and, as a result, we have collectively taken the decision to make an early switch. We came into the 2025 season with two ambitions, to retain the World Drivers’ Championship and to reclaim the World Constructors’ title and this is a purely sporting decision. We acknowledge there is a lot of work to be done with the RB21 and Yuki’s experience will prove highly beneficial in helping to develop the current car. We welcome him to the Team and are looking forward to seeing him behind the wheel of the RB21. We have a duty of care to protect and develop Liam and together, we see that after such a difficult start, it makes sense to act quickly so Liam can gain experience, as he continues his F1 career with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, an environment and a Team he knows very well. Christian Horner on the news.
We’re incredibly proud of Yuki earning his well-deserved move to Oracle Red Bull Racing! His progress last year, and more recently from the very start of 2025, has been nothing less than sensational. Personally, and collectively, it has been an immense privilege to witness those progresses for all of us in Faenza and in Milton Keynes. Yuki’s energy and positivity has lightened up every corner of our factories and of our garage and he will always be a Racing Bull! We wish him all the success he deserves at ORBR. Everyone here at VCARB is looking forward to working hard with Liam to give him the best environment possible for him to shine in our car and to express the talent we all know he has. He fit in so well last year, and we cannot wait to challenge ourselves and grow as a team. With Isack having started so strongly with us already, we know we have a young and strong line-up. Laurent Mekies, Team Principal of Racing Bulls on the news.
Red Bull have chosen Liam Lawson to replace Sergio Perez and become Max Verstappen’s team mate this year.
Just before Christmas it got announced that Sergio Perez will be leaving the team with immediate effect after agreeing a deal to part ways with the team despite having two years left on his contract.
When Red Bull opted to make a change with Perez, they narrowed down the shortlist to either promoting Lawson or his RB teammate Yuki Tsunoda.
New Zealander, Lawson got the nod after impressing in two super-sub stints with Red Bull’s sister team – first when he replaced the injured Daniel Ricciardo for five races towards the end of 2023, and second when he replaced Ricciardo from the United States Grand Prix onwards in 2024.
To be announced as an Oracle Red Bull Racing driver is a lifelong dream for me. This is something I’ve wanted and worked towards since I was eight years old. It’s been an incredible journey so far. I want to say a massive thank you to the whole team at VCARB for their support, the last six races have played a huge part in my preparation for this next step. I also want to thank, Christian [Horner, Red Bull boss], Helmut [Marko, Red Bull Motorsport Adviser] and the whole Red Bull family for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. I am super excited to work alongside Max and learn from a World Champion, I have no doubt I will learn from his expertise. I can’t wait to get going! Lawson on the news.
I’m delighted to announce that Liam Lawson will join the team in 2025. Liam’s performances over the course of his two stints with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls have demonstrated that he’s not only capable of delivering strong results but that he’s also a real racer, not afraid to mix it with the best and come out on top. His arrival continues the Team’s long history of promoting from within the Red Bull Junior Programme and he follows in the footsteps of championship and race-winning drivers such as Sebastian Vettel and of course, Max Verstappen. There’s no doubt that racing alongside Max, a four-time champion and undoubtedly one of the greatest drivers ever seen in F1, is a daunting task, but I’m sure Liam can rise to that challenge and deliver some outstanding results for us next year. Christian Horner on the news.
Sergio Perez and Red Bull have reached an agreement to part ways with immediate effect.
Last year, Perez signed a new deal to race for the team until the end of 2026 – on the back of his strongest season ever in 2023, when he finished second to team mate and champion Max Verstappen.
However, his form wasn’t the same after signing that deal, the Mexican driver scored only nine points in the last eight Grand Prix weekends of the 2024 season.
He finished the season in eighth in the drivers’ championship with Red Bull failing to defend their constructors’ championship and seeing out the season in P3 behind champions McLaren and runners-up Ferrari.
Throughout the difficult period and many rumours, Perez remained resolute that he would race for the team this year, but following discussions with Red Bull they’ve agreed to split after four years together.
During his time at Red Bull Perez secured five wins, including victory in Monaco, over 90 starts with the team and also played a key role in Red Bull winning the constructors’ championship in 2022 and 2023.
I’m incredibly grateful for the past four years with Oracle Red Bull Racing and for the opportunity to race with such an amazing team. Driving for Red Bull has been an unforgettable experience and I’ll always cherish the successes we achieved together. We broke records, reached remarkable milestones, and I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many incredible people along the way. A big thank you to every person in the team from the management, engineers and mechanics, catering, hospitality, kitchen, marketing and communications, as well as everyone at Milton Keynes, I wish you all the best for the future. It has also been an honour to race alongside Max as a team mate all these years and to share in our success. A special thank you to the fans around the world, and especially to the Mexican fans for your unwavering support every day. We’ll meet again soon. And remember… never give up. Perez on the news.
I would like to thank Checo for all he has done for Oracle Red Bull Racing over the past four seasons. From the moment he joined in 2021 he proved himself to be an extraordinary team player, helping us to two constructors’ titles and to our first one-two finish in the drivers’ championship. His five wins, all on street circuits, were also a spectacular mark of his determination to always push to the limit. While Checo will not race for the team next season, he will always be an extremely popular team member and a treasured part of our history. Thank you, Checo. Christian Horner on the news.
Jordan's Track Talk 