Red Bull’s Contingency Plan: Who Will Replace Verstappen If He Faces an F1 Suspension?
Max Verstappen is teetering on the edge of a one-race suspension in the 2025 Formula 1 season.Following a controversial incident with George Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix, Verstappen accumulated three penalty points on his super license, bringing his total to 11 out of the 12-point limit over a 12-month period.With just one point away from a ban, Red Bull Racing has activated its contingency plan to prepare for a potential driver change
Verstappen’s Suspension Risk
The penalty points Verstappen received in Spain will not expire until after the Canadian Grand Prix on June 15.This means that if he incurs another penalty point in the upcoming races in Canada or Austria, he will be sidelined for the subsequent race.Such a suspension could significantly impact his championship aspirations, as he currently trails Oscar Piastri by 49 points in the Drivers’ Championship standings.
Red Bull’s Backup Plan
In anticipation of a possible suspension, Red Bull Racing has outlined a temporary driver lineup.The team plans to promote either Isack Hadjar or Liam Lawson from their sister team, Racing Bulls, to fill Verstappen’s seat.Hadjar, a 20-year-old French-Algerian driver, has impressed in his rookie season, securing five top-10 finishes and showcasing a driving style reminiscent of Verstappen’s aggressive approach.Lawson, a 23-year-old New Zealander, has prior experience with Red Bull Racing, having filled in for Daniel Ricciardo in 2024.Despite a challenging start to the season, Lawson’s familiarity with the team’s operations makes him a viable option.
To maintain stability across both teams, Ayumu Iwasa, Red Bull’s reserve driver and a seasoned Super Formula competitor, is set to step into the Racing Bulls seat if Verstappen is suspended.Iwasa has previously tested for Red Bull Racing and has experience in Formula 1 practice sessions, making him a reliable choice for the sister team.
The Future of Arvid Lindblad
Arvid Lindblad, a 17-year-old British driver currently competing in Formula 2, has been a subject of speculation regarding a potential promotion to Formula 1.While Lindblad has demonstrated exceptional talent, including two race wins in his rookie F2 season, he is not currently eligible for an F1 super license due to his age.Red Bull has applied for an exemption from the FIA to allow Lindblad to participate in F1, but this decision is pending.As such, Lindblad is not considered a primary candidate to replace Verstappen in the event of a suspension.
Red Bull Racing is proactively preparing for the possibility of Max Verstappen’s suspension by activating a comprehensive contingency plan.With talented drivers like Hadjar and Lawson ready to step in, the team aims to minimize disruption and maintain competitiveness in the championship.However, the onus remains on Verstappen to navigate the upcoming races without incurring additional penalties, ensuring his continued participation and pursuit of the 2025 title.
