Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane delivered a message of praise to Liam Lawson over team radio following the United States Grand Prix, despite the New Zealander's future remaining uncertain. The 2027 driver line-up has yet to be confirmed, with Lawson continuing to strengthen his case for another season through his performances on track.

Lawson enjoyed a solid weekend at the Circuit of the Americas, qualifying ninth and maintaining that position throughout Sunday's race. With the four leading teams occupying the top eight places, the Racing Bulls driver secured the best possible result without any retirements ahead of him.

The New Zealander managed his tyres effectively across both stints, extending his opening run on the soft compound longer than any other driver in the top ten before switching to the hard tyres. His performance earned praise from Permane, who made an unusual appearance over the team radio after the chequered flag.

Permane jokes with Lawson after impressive Austin performance

Lawson performed at a concert in Austin on Thursday evening before the race weekend, something his team principal jokingly brought up after the Grand Prix.

"You want to do a gig on Thursday in Mexico as well?" Permane asked.

"Yeah, I felt so relaxed all weekend, honestly," Lawson replied with a laugh.

"Well done, amazing," Permane continued. "Perfect, perfect weekend."

The Racing Bulls boss also praised Lawson's race management in the team's official post-race statement, highlighting his ability to control the gap to Pierre Gasly without pushing his car to its limits: "It was a textbook race from Liam; he controlled the gap to Pierre throughout and was driving well within himself and the car."

Photo: Race Pictures

Lawson still waiting for Racing Bulls' 2027 decision

Despite the positive feedback, Lawson has yet to receive confirmation that he will remain with Racing Bulls next season. The team must choose between retaining its current pairing of Lawson and Arvid Lindblad or promoting Formula 2 driver Nikola Tsolov, who is also competing for a place on the 2027 grid.

Speaking during the Singapore Grand Prix weekend, Permane made clear that Racing Bulls would not rush its decision, despite acknowledging the quality of all three candidates.

"We're in no rush. I think everyone knows we've got two fantastic drivers. But three doesn't fit into two, of course, and we're just going to take a little bit more time and make sure we get the right pairing for next year."

Although Permane indicated that an announcement would follow in the coming weeks, more than two weeks have passed without confirmation. Lawson currently sits ninth in the drivers' championship, with his results helping Racing Bulls maintain their advantage over Alpine in the constructors' standings.