Red Bull has officially announced that Yuki Tsunoda will replace Liam Lawson as a driver starting from the Japanese Grand Prix.
The team described the move as a “purely sporting decision” aimed at addressing performance issues with its troubled RB21 car. The decision comes after media speculation following the Chinese Grand Prix, with Red Bull confirming the switch on Thursday.
Lawson, who had only competed in 11 Formula 1 races before his promotion, stepped in for Sergio Pérez. Meanwhile, Tsunoda, who debuted with Red Bull’s second team in 2021, was initially overlooked for the role. However, after just two races, Red Bull reversed its decision, demoting Lawson to the Racing Bulls junior team. The team cited Lawson’s struggles with the RB21 as a key reason for the change.
Red Bull grew concerned about Lawson’s performance, especially after his disastrous showing in China.
He failed to finish the Australian Grand Prix and then qualified last in both the sprint and main race in Shanghai. With Max Verstappen stating that the RB21 was far from competitive, the team decided that Tsunoda’s experience would be crucial in helping to develop the car.
Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner acknowledged the car’s shortcomings and emphasized the need for a strong driver to improve performance. He stated that the team made this early switch to remain competitive in both the World Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships. He stressed that Tsunoda’s experience would be vital in helping the team refine the RB21.
Horner expressed confidence in Tsunoda’s ability to contribute to the team’s development. He welcomed the Japanese driver to the main Red Bull squad, emphasizing the importance of having an experienced teammate for Verstappen. Tsunoda’s promotion means Verstappen will have his third different teammate in just four races, highlighting Red Bull’s ongoing struggles with stability.
Tsunoda’s promotion aligns perfectly with his home Grand Prix at Suzuka, making his debut for the senior team even more special.
Sources revealed that Honda, Red Bull’s engine supplier and a longtime supporter of Tsunoda’s career, played a crucial role in facilitating the move. With Honda set to become Aston Martin’s exclusive engine supplier in 2026, the company sees this as a chance to celebrate its championship-winning partnership with Red Bull.
Meanwhile, Lawson will return to Racing Bulls, where he initially debuted in 2023 as a substitute for Daniel Ricciardo. He later earned a full-time seat as Ricciardo’s replacement last season. Despite the demotion, Red Bull believes that the move will benefit Lawson’s long-term career in Formula 1.
Horner stressed that the team remains committed to Lawson’s development and future prospects. He explained that the decision was made to ensure Lawson gains more experience in an environment he is familiar with. Racing for Visa Cash App Racing Bulls will allow him to rebuild his confidence and improve his skills without the immense pressure of Red Bull’s senior team.
Lawson’s time as a Red Bull driver lasted a total of 99 days, from his promotion to his demotion. During this period, he competed in two races but failed to score any points. The statistical comparison between Tsunoda and Lawson reveals that Tsunoda has outperformed Lawson in 12 of their 13 Grand Prix appearances together. He has also scored more total points, with eight compared to Lawson’s six.
Lawson is the first Red Bull driver to fail to score points in his first two races since Daniel Ricciardo in 2014. Other drivers who faced similar struggles include Sebastian Vettel in 2009, Mark Webber in 2007, and Robert Doornbos in 2006. Despite this setback, Lawson still has the opportunity to rebuild his career within the Red Bull system.
Tsunoda’s arrival makes him Verstappen’s second teammate since the Dutch driver secured his most recent championship.
Over the past 50 years, only one driver has managed to win back-to-back titles with a different teammate—Alain Prost in 1986. The last time a reigning world champion had multiple teammates in a single season was Nelson Piquet in 1984 with Brabham. This historical precedent underlines the rarity of Red Bull’s situation.
With Tsunoda stepping in and Lawson returning to Racing Bulls, Red Bull hopes to regain stability and improve its performance in the 2025 season. The decision underscores the team’s urgency to fix its issues with the RB21 and remain competitive in both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships.
