Andrew Benson addresses reader queries in his F1 Q&A ahead of the United States Grand Prix, with one of the most asked questions being whether Racing Bulls will keep drivers Lindblad and Lawson for next season.
Benson says there is no simple yes-or-no answer because such decisions are driven by a mix of contractual details, on-track performance and wider team strategy. He notes that if either driver is under contract for the upcoming season, the team’s hands may be tied unless a buyout is agreed; if both are near the end of their deals, Racing Bulls’ management will have more flexibility to make changes.
Performance across the remainder of the season will be crucial, Benson adds. Teams typically weigh recent form, reliability and how well a driver fits with the engineering team and development programme when deciding whether to renew. Sponsorship, budget considerations and the availability of alternative drivers or promoted academy members also factor into the calculus.
Timing is another element Benson highlights. Crucial personnel announcements often come later in the season or after it finishes, when teams have a clearer picture of results and budgets for the following year. He advises fans to watch the closing rounds closely: late-season form and any emerging sponsorship deals often provide the strongest signals about likely moves.
In short, Benson’s view is that retention of Lindblad and Lawson by Racing Bulls is plausible but not guaranteed — the outcome will be determined by contract status, on-track results, internal team priorities and the evolving driver market as the season progresses.