Racing Bulls team boss Permane details why Lawson was chosen over Tsunoda
Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane has explained why Liam Lawson was chosen over Yuki Tsunoda for the team’s 2026 seat.
"In some of the most difficult situations we've had this year, he has excelled.”- Alan Permane
Speaking in an interview with F1, Permane, explaining the rationale behind the team opting to continue with Lawson, lauded the Kiwi driver and highlighted his performance in what he described as difficult situations as pivotal to the decision.
"Liam is talented, he's very talented, and my mission will be to get him to operate at the level he can when everything is working for him," he began.
"In some of the most difficult situations we've had this year, such as Vegas Qualifying or Baku Qualifying, he's excelled – and he's had some really strong races. I know he's capable of that, and he knows he's capable of that, and I just want to work with him to get him to that level every single time he goes in the car,” he added.
Throughout much of the 2025 season, both Lawson and Tsunoda were in the spotlight as Red Bull Racing evaluated their futures. Ultimately, the team confirmed that Lawson will continue with Racing Bulls in 2026, while Tsunoda will take up the role of reserve driver for Red Bull Racing.
Villeneuve tells Tsunoda to be proud of his achievement
Earlier, 1997 F1 champion Jacques Villeneuve stated that Tsunoda could be proud of his career in Formula 1.
The Canadian also noted that the 25-year-old could explore other racing series if he wants to continue racing while serving as a reserve driver.
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