The Lawson vs Tsunoda battle is raging ahead of the 2026 F1 season. How can we know which of the two drivers will be chosen?
The future darkens for some Red Bull drivers. Already, Isack Hadjar seems destined for a seat in 2026. Meanwhile, a Lawson vs Tsunoda battle is unfolding to stay in the Austrian program. Between sporting rivalry, on-track tensions, and increasing pressure, their duel for a place in F1 is turning into a psychological war.
Why this Lawson vs Tsunoda battle?
Since Austin, the rivalry between the two drivers has only intensified. Yuki Tsunoda accuses Liam Lawson of blocking him several times in qualifying. On his side, Lawson dismisses these claims with a wave of the hand. This episode illustrates the mindset between them. It translates into mistrust and frustration, but also a fierce competition for their survival in F1.
A relationship already weakened since Monza
At Monza, the Japanese driver had already lost his temper with the New Zealander after an incident during the race. This is one of the points that sparked the Lawson vs Tsunoda battle. According to Tsunoda, the Racing Bulls driver had deliberately impeded him while he was fighting for points.
Since then, the two men avoid each other outside the paddock. They also measure each other on every lap of the track. This tension reflects the reality that at Red Bull, only one seat will be available for 2026, and they know it.
A Lawson vs Tsunoda battle due to pressure at Red Bull
Being part of the Red Bull program means living under constant pressure. Young drivers know they must perform quickly, or they risk being replaced. Lawson and Tsunoda operate in this ruthless environment, where the slightest mistake can cost an entire career. For them, every point scored is therefore an additional argument to present to Helmut Marko.
What will decide between Lawson and Tsunoda?
The two drivers do not have the same profile, and this matters a lot in the Lawson vs Tsunoda battle. On one hand, Lawson impresses with his consistency and maturity. On the other hand, Tsunoda relies on his experience and his privileged relationship with Racing Bulls management. But ultimately, in 2026, only one of them will have a seat.
Lawson, the consistency of an outsider
Since his return to Racing Bulls, Liam Lawson has scored 30 points. This includes a fifth place in Baku, his best career result. He now leads Tsunoda by two points in the championship, despite having a less competitive car.
The New Zealander believes he has done “everything he could to stay.” He also wants to win this Lawson vs Tsunoda battle and prove that he finally deserves a full season without interruption.
Tsunoda, experience and loyalty tested
Present for four seasons in the Red Bull program, Yuki Tsunoda relies on stability. Under Laurent Mekies’ guidance, he has progressed and established himself as a reliable teammate for Verstappen. He also highlights his recent improvements and “more consistent pace.” Otherwise, his performances remain uneven, with eleven races outside the points this season.
Who will win the Lawson vs Tsunoda battle?
Both F1 drivers still have five Grands Prix to convince Red Bull before the final decisions. Lawson has momentum and discipline on his side, Tsunoda loyalty and experience. But at Red Bull, feelings matter little, as only performance counts.
Moreover, we cannot ignore the fact that the Japanese driver remains linked to Honda. And the latter’s departure to Aston Martin weakens his position. Lawson could then take advantage of this transition to establish himself as the logical choice for 2026. No matter what happens, this Lawson vs Tsunoda battle will remain one of the most intense of the season.