Red Bull confirms Tsunoda for Suzuka home race start

Red Bull officially confirms Tsunoda as replacement for Liam Lawson at thre Japanese Grand Prix.

Tsunoda's promotion comes after a swift decision by Red Bull to rotate drivers, moving Liam Lawson back to the Racing Bulls team after a challenging start to the 2025 season.

The Japanese driver, who has spent five seasons with Red Bull's sister squad, embraced the opportunity with characteristic enthusiasm.

"Ready for the challenge ahead,"

Tsunoda declared on social media, accompanied by a photo of himself in the iconic Red Bull racing suit.

His confidence echoed through a video message in Japanese, where he expressed excitement about competing at his home circuit.

The move represents a significant milestone for Tsunoda, who had previously indicated his readiness to step up.

During the Chinese Grand Prix weekend, he candidly told reporters he would be prepared to take the Red Bull seat, expressing particular excitement about the car's performance.

A team's confidence in their driver

Laurent Mekies, Racing Bulls team principal, spoke volumes about Tsunoda's journey.

"His progress has been nothing less than sensational,"

Mekies emphasized, highlighting the driver's consistent development and positive energy that has inspired teams in Faenza and Milton Keynes.

Christian Horner, meanwhile, framed Liam Lawson's return to Racing Bulls as a strategic move focused on the young driver's continued development.

"We see that after such a difficult start, it makes sense to act quickly,"

Horner explained, underlining the team's commitment to nurturing talent.

Tsunoda's promotion arrives at a pivotal moment, with the Japanese Grand Prix offering a perfect homecoming narrative.

Partnering with Max Verstappen, he now faces the ultimate test of translating years of experience with the junior team into performance at the highest level of Formula 1.