Montoya says Lawson could be Red Bull's next Verstappen

Juan Pablo Montoya believes Liam Lawson is showing signs that he could become Max Verstappen's successor at Red Bull. The seven-time grand prix winner said the New Zealander is enjoying his best Formula 1 season to date, having emerged as the standout midfield driver in 2026 with 89 points across his Racing Bulls seat and a three-race return to Red Bull.

Montoya also pointed to Lawson's growing assertiveness, citing a clash with Verstappen during free practice at the Mexican Grand Prix that led to a one-place grid penalty for each driver. Montoya said Lawson was "starting to stick out his chest" and making clear that people need to respect him.

Racing Bulls has confirmed an unchanged line-up of Lawson and Arvid Lindblad for 2027, while Verstappen has recently signed a Red Bull contract extension running until the end of 2030.