Red Bull set to replace Lawson with Tsunoda at Suzuka
Red Bull are set to replace Liam Lawson with Yuki Tsunoda for the Japanese Grand Prix, just three races into the 2025 season, following a poor start for the New Zealander and a standout run of form from Tsunoda.
The Red Bull Racing team is poised to make a dramatic driver change that could reshape the 2025 Formula 1 season.
Yuki Tsunoda will replace Liam Lawson at the senior team, a decision that comes after just two challenging races for the New Zealand driver.
Lawson's brief tenure with Red Bull has been nothing short of turbulent.
His debut race in Melbourne ended in a crash, followed by a disastrous performance in Shanghai where he qualified last and finished a distant 12th.
These early setbacks prompted Red Bull's senior management to convene an urgent meeting in Dubai, ultimately deciding to make a swift and decisive driver swap.
A homecoming for Tsunoda
The move represents a significant opportunity for Tsunoda, who will make his Red Bull debut at his home race in Suzuka.
The 24-year-old Japanese driver has long been vocal about his desire to race for the senior team, and his recent performances with Racing Bulls have caught the team's attention.
Tsunoda has demonstrated impressive form in the 2025 season, consistently reaching Q3 and starting as high as fifth on the grid in Australia.
His readiness for the promotion was evident in his own words during the Chinese Grand Prix weekend, confidently stating he was "100 per cent" prepared to step into a Red Bull car.
Historical context of Red Bull's driver development
This is not an unprecedented move for Red Bull's driver program.
The team has a history of promoting and demoting drivers based on performance.
Previous drivers like Daniil Kvyat and Pierre Gasly have experienced similar career trajectories within the Red Bull ecosystem.
The involvement of Honda, Red Bull's current engine partners who have supported Tsunoda throughout his career, adds an intriguing layer to the decision.
Their influence suggests a carefully orchestrated strategic move rather than a purely performance-based swap.
Looking ahead: Tsunoda's challenge
Tsunoda will now face the ultimate test of his career. Racing alongside Max Verstappen represents both an immense challenge and an incredible opportunity.
His performance in the coming races will determine whether this midseason change becomes a pivotal moment in his Formula 1 journey.
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