’Incredible’ Lawson backed again amid Tsolov speculation
"Liam has been incredible this year, honestly"
Racing Bulls boss Alan Permane has again defended Liam Lawson’s place amid continued speculation linking Red Bull junior Nikola Tsolov with a Formula 1 seat.
Recent reports have suggested the Formula 2 frontrunner could replace Lawson alongside Arvid Lindblad in 2027, although Permane insisted in Austria that no decisions have been made.
Now, still speaking at the Red Bull Ring but this time to El Mundo Deportivo newspaper, he again praised Lawson’s performances.
"Liam has been incredible this year, honestly," said Permane.
"We talk a lot about Arvid, and rightly so, but Liam had a very difficult start to last season. He was also competing against Isack Hadjar, who is an extraordinary talent.
"However, this year Liam has done exactly everything we’ve asked of him.
"He’s totally focused, still very fast, takes advantage of opportunities when they arise, doesn’t make mistakes, and is doing a fantastic job. He’s well placed in the World Championship standings.
"That’s exactly what we asked of him, and he’s delivering."
Permane also acknowledged that Tsolov’s impressive Formula 2 form is strengthening his case for promotion.
"It’s a very nice problem to have," he said.
"He’s already won in Melbourne and Monaco. He’ll be knocking on the door very soon."
Asked how Racing Bulls could accommodate another highly rated Red Bull junior with only two race seats available, Permane smiled: "Having too many good drivers is always a good problem.
"He’s doing an impressive job, and we’re following him very closely.
"He’s doing an excellent job."