Analysts Will Buxton and David Coulthard have discussed the demanding driver culture within the Red Bull Formula 1 organisation, highlighting Max Verstappen as the established performance benchmark. The discussion underscores the high expectations placed on drivers progressing through the Red Bull system.
Red Bull Racing and its sister team, Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, operate a unique two-tier structure designed to develop talent. While Red Bull Racing competes for championships, Racing Bulls serves as a proving ground for young drivers from the Red Bull Junior Team.
Buxton noted that within the Red Bull family, there is always one driver who sets the standard. Sebastian Vettel previously held this role, followed by Daniel Ricciardo.
However, the arrival of Max Verstappen fundamentally shifted this dynamic. Buxton explained that Verstappen became the new measure, requiring any aspiring driver to perform at a comparable or superior level.
You must be better than Max. Red Bull does not want someone who achieves the same level or is slightly less good. They need someone who is better.
This philosophy extends to the Red Bull Racing lineup. For the 2027 season, Max Verstappen, who is contracted until the end of 2030, will be partnered by Isack Hadjar.
Hadjar was promoted to Red Bull Racing for the 2026 season after an impressive rookie year with Racing Bulls in 2025, which included a podium finish at the Dutch Grand Prix.
Despite a wrist injury that sidelined him for three Grands Prix in 2026, Hadjar secured consistent points finishes, including a podium at the Monaco Grand Prix, leading to his contract extension for 2027.
Meanwhile, Visa Cash App Racing Bulls has confirmed Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad will remain with the team for the 2027 Formula 1 season.
Lawson’s future had been subject to speculation, with Formula 2 frontrunner Nikola Tsolov considered a potential replacement.
However, Lawson’s strong 2026 campaign, which saw him score points in 15 of 20 Grands Prix and deputise for Hadjar at Red Bull, ultimately secured his retention.
Arvid Lindblad, a rookie in 2026, also earned his second season with Racing Bulls. He contributed 38 points to the team’s efforts and demonstrated consistent development throughout his debut year.
The Red Bull Junior Team, established in 2001, has a history of identifying and nurturing talent, producing multiple Grand Prix winners and world champions like Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen.
However, the programme is also known for its rigorous demands, with many drivers failing to meet the required standards and subsequently being released from the system.
Both Red Bull Racing and Visa Cash App Racing Bulls utilise power units developed by Red Bull Ford Powertrains, a new partnership for the 2026 regulations.
The 2026 Formula 1 season has seen Kimi Antonelli secure the Drivers’ World Championship, with Max Verstappen currently holding second place in the standings.
