Why Max Verstappen could decide two drivers' F1 fates

Max Verstappen's future beyond 2026 remains unresolved, and the ripple effects of his eventual decision could reshape the entire Red Bull and Racing Bulls driver lineups for years to come.

While Verstappen's contract with Red Bull runs until the end of 2028, it is well documented that the deal contains exit clauses that could allow the four-time world champion to walk away before 2027. 

His manager, Raymond Vermeulen, has confirmed those clauses exist and indicated that a decision on Verstappen's 2027 plans will come "in the near future," yet nothing has been publicly settled.

RacingNews365 understands that conversations between Verstappen's camp and Red Bull are set to continue across the Austrian Grand Prix weekend, with the team eager to secure his commitment beyond this season.

Verstappen visited Red Bull's Austrian headquarters ahead of finishing fourth in Barcelona, while he has been in Milton Keynes since the last grand prix to celebrate his 10th anniversary with the team. 

Red Bull's leading senior figures will be at the outfit's home race this weekend, a historic one for the team with it being its first home grand prix as a power unit supplier. 

While talks with the Dutchman over his future will continue in the build-up to and across the Austrian GP, with the focus will be on track due to Red Bull's major upgrade package.

The Lawson and Tsolov dilemma

Should Verstappen decide to leave Red Bull for a rival, or indeed step away from F1 entirely, the most logical internal candidate to fill the RB22 seat would be Liam Lawson. 

The New Zealander is currently 10th in the standings with 28 points after seven rounds, delivering a solid, consistent season for Racing Bulls that has underlined his credentials as a future Red Bull driver once again.

RacingNews365 understands that Nikola Tsolov is a serious option for the Faenza-based outfit, to replace Lawson. However, it is understood that no deal has been signed yet.

The Bulgarian, who is currently second in the Formula 2 championship with Campos Racing on 80 points, has been one of the standout performers in the junior category this year, with Feature Race victories in Melbourne and Monte Carlo establishing him as the next cab off the Red Bull junior rank.

If Verstappen departs, the path is clean: Lawson steps up to Red Bull, Tsolov slots into Racing Bulls alongside Arvid Lindblad, and the junior programme functions exactly as it was designed to.

But if Verstappen stays, and all indications from Vermeulen suggest that remains his preference, Red Bull faces an altogether more awkward puzzle. 

Lawson would have no obvious promotion path, leaving the team to choose between keeping him at Racing Bulls or allowing him to pursue opportunities elsewhere. Either way, it would block Tsolov's route to a 2027 race seat.

One man's decision, two careers in the balance. The Austrian GP could prove pivotal for more than just points on track.