Red Bull Considering External Drivers, Including George Russell, for 2026 Lineup

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has revealed that the team is considering external drivers, including George Russell, for their 2026 lineup. Horner stated that it would be “mad” not to consider offers from outside their driver pool, including Russell, whose contract with Mercedes expires at the end of 2025.

The Red Bull lineup is currently in turmoil, with Daniel Ricciardo’s future uncertain. Ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix weekend, there were rumors that Sunday’s race could be Ricciardo’s final race in F1, with Liam Lawson potentially taking over after the United States Grand Prix.

Horner’s comments have sparked speculation about Ricciardo’s future with the team. When asked whether the Singapore race would be Ricciardo’s last RB race, Horner replied, “These sorts of things are always a consideration.” He also stated that the team is constantly evaluating their options for the future and will use the next three weeks to consider all possibilities.

Horner also praised Liam Lawson’s performance last year with the VCARB car, but noted that the team preferred to have Ricciardo as an insurance policy in case Sergio Perez failed. However, he acknowledged that Ricciardo is having a decent but not great season.

Martin Brundle asked Horner whether Red Bull should have kept drivers who had moved to other teams, such as Alex Albon and Pierre Gasly. Horner replied that the team expects results and performance from their drivers, and that they have a deep junior program to consider for future options.

Horner also mentioned that the team is looking at drivers like Franco Colapinto, Oliver Bearman, and Kimi Antonelli, and that they have a very deep junior program to consider for future options. He also noted that they are not afraid to look outside their driver pool and that George Russell’s contract expiration at the end of 2025 makes him a potential candidate for a driver spot in the future.