P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The seats at Red Bull and Racing Bulls are still to be divided toward 2026. Peter Bayer, the CEO of Racing Bulls, confirms that a decision will be made after the Qatar GP.
Racing Bulls CEO Peter Bayer disclosed that Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies aims to finalize the 2026 driver pairings post the Qatar Grand Prix this weekend. Max Verstappen is the sole confirmed driver for the upcoming season, leading to speculation on who will secure the remaining seats. It was previously mentioned by Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko that Isack Hadjar holds a contract for a 2026 race seat under the Austrian family, likely becoming Verstappen’s new teammate. Yuki Tsunoda might face an exit, paving the way for Hadjar’s entry. Red Bull junior Arvid Lindblad is rumored to be promoted to the sister team, potentially competing with Liam Lawson and Tsunoda for the second seat. With the season end near, Red Bull seeks to make decisions promptly regarding the upcoming power unit regulations, emphasizing fairness and respect for the drivers awaiting confirmation. Bayer expressed the urgency for a swift decision, citing the need to prepare for post-season activities like the tyre test and respecting the drivers by timely communication of their future within the team.
