Racing Bulls CEO Peter Bayer has acknowledged that Liam Lawson has “done everything” he can to prove himself within the team.
Lawson has enjoyed a successful campaign this year and has been a regular finisher inside the points, with 83 to his name after the Mexico City Grand Prix.
The New Zealander is on course to end the campaign ninth in the drivers’ championship, the first position outside the drivers from the leading teams.
However, he has not yet secured a drive on the 2027 F1 grid and is believed to be facing competition from Red Bull junior Nikola Tsolov.
While Lawson has impressed, Bayer insisted that Racing Bulls’ core goal is to assess fresh talent when it becomes available.
“He has certainly done everything to prove himself,” Bayer told ORF. “That’s also the general consensus in the paddock.
“As a team that plays a leading role in developing new Formula 1 talent, it’s our job to continually bring new drivers into the series.
“We’ve already helped a total of 22 drivers make it to Formula 1, including Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen.
“That’s why I also say that the decision will ultimately rest with Alan. He’ll make the right choice for the team.”
Bayer issues praise to challenger Tsolov
Tsolov is currently fighting for the Formula 2 title and sits seven points down on leader Rafael Camara with two rounds to go.
The Bulgarian made his F1 weekend debut last weekend in Mexico, taking part in FP1 as part of the mandatory rookie outings teams must provide.
Tsolov ended the session in 12th, drawing praise from Bayer.
“Nikola’s stint on Friday was really great. It was his first time in this car, and he integrated perfectly into the team.
“As for the decision regarding next year’s driver lineup, that decision rests with Alan.
“He’ll make a decision and announce it when he thinks the time is right.”