James Hinchliffe backs Liam Lawson to keep Racing Bulls seat despite Nikola Tsolov promotion rumors.

Racing Bulls driver Liam Lawson should retain his Formula 1 seat for 2027 despite speculation linking Red Bull junior Nikola Tsolov to a potential promotion, according to IndyCar commentator James Hinchliffe. Lawson has been Racing Bulls' standout performer this season, scoring the majority of their 83 points and earning praise for his temporary Red Bull appearances.

Red Bull called up Lawson when Isack Hadjar fractured his wrist before the Dutch Grand Prix, with the New Zealander adding 14 points in three races despite driving an unfamiliar car on short notice. Team principal Laurent Mekies applauded Lawson's adaptation and continued growth as a driver during his brief Red Bull stint.

However, Red Bull announced they would continue with Hadjar for 2027 just one week after Lawson's final appearance in Madrid, leaving the 24-year-old with Racing Bulls as his only Formula 1 option. Tsolov, currently second in Formula 2, represents the next Red Bull junior seeking promotion to the main grid.

Hinchliffe predicted the Racing Bulls lineup would remain unchanged for next season, arguing that Lawson has justified his place at the team and performed well enough to warrant a Red Bull race seat. Fellow podcast pundit Alex Brundle praised Lawson's ability to hold his head high despite setbacks, including being spun by teammate Arvid Lindblad in Baku.