Liam Lawson ‘next Verstappen’ theory presented by Montoya

Liam Lawson is showing signs that he could become the successor to Max Verstappen at Red Bull.

That is the opinion expressed by seven-time grand prix winner Juan Pablo Montoya, who believes that the New Zealander is also “starting to stick out his chest” as he enjoys his best season in Formula 1 to date.

Liam Lawson receives glowing Montoya recommendation

He has emerged as the midfield standout in F1 2026, scoring 89 points across his Racing Bulls seat and a three-race return to Red Bull in place of the injured Isack Hadjar.

All of this was achieved despite intense speculation swirling over his future in Formula 1, as Racing Bulls mulled over which two out of Lawson, Arvid Lindblad and Red Bull junior Nikola Tsolov to place in its F1 2027 seats.

Following the Brazilian Grand Prix, it was confirmed that Racing Bulls would run an unchanged line-up of Lawson and Lindblad next year.

With that decision, the driver who Montoya sees as Red Bull’s potential next Verstappen remains on the grid.

Such a succession plan is a long-term process, as Verstappen recently put pen to paper on a Red Bull contract extension, running until the end of 2030.

“To a certain extent, Liam is starting to show that he could be the next Max. He could,” Montoya is widely quoted as having told the MontoyAS podcast.

“He’s the best driver. Of the drivers in the slower cars in the second group, he’s the best driver. He sets the pace.”

In addition to the Kiwi’s speed, Montoya also sees progress in the Racing Bulls driver making his be presence felt.

He caused quite the stir with Verstappen during free practice at the Mexican Grand Prix, as neither driver was prepared to yield into Turn 13, resulting in contact and a one-place grid penalty apiece.

“He’s starting to grow, he’s starting to stick out his chest, his elbows, his shoulders, and make it clear that people need to respect him, too,” Montoya states.

More on Liam Lawson from PlanetF1.com

OPINION: Why Mercedes could be on the horizon for Liam Lawson

Liam Lawson alerted Red Bull to Verstappen help in Brazil after Mexico spat

Lawson is now safe in the knowledge that he can continue his progression into F1 2027 as part of an unchanged Racing Bulls attack alongside Lindblad.

“I’m very happy to be continuing with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls next year,” he said in reaction to the announcement.

“We’ve had a brilliant season together and the team has worked very hard to produce a fast car, which I’ve loved driving.

“It feels great to be part of a historic season for the team as we continue our fight for P5 in the Constructors’ Championship.

“It’s a testament to the hard work of everyone both at track and back at the factory.

“I’m looking forward to carrying this moment forward with Arvid through to 2027; we’re building something super positive and I’m excited by what we can achieve together.”

Read next: Former F1 driver makes comeback with McLaren test