Yuki Tsunoda has been elevated to the Red Bull Racing team for the upcoming Formula 1 race, marking a significant milestone as it coincides with his home Grand Prix at the Japanese circuit. Meanwhile, Liam Lawson is set to move to the Racing Bulls team following a challenging beginning to the 2025 F1 season.
Red Bull has officially announced that Lawson and Tsunoda will be swapping their seats starting next weekend at the highly anticipated Japanese Grand Prix. This strategic decision is driven by the team’s aim to “develop and protect” Lawson as he navigates the early stages of his racing career.
After just two races, the 23-year-old Lawson will rejoin Racing Bulls, with team principal Christian Horner emphasizing the importance of a “duty of care” for the driver’s well-being and development. Tsunoda, who has spent over four years competing in the junior Red Bull team, will finally take his place alongside reigning champion Max Verstappen, providing him with a golden opportunity to showcase his skills at the highest level of motorsport.
Currently, Verstappen is positioned second in the F1 Drivers’ Championship, boasting 45 points, while Lawson has yet to score any points, prompting Red Bull to implement a driver rotation to bolster performance. Horner commented on the challenging circumstances for Lawson, stating, “It has been difficult to see Liam struggle with the RB21 in the first two races. Consequently, we have collectively agreed to initiate an early switch.”
The decision reflects Red Bull’s dual ambitions for the 2025 season: to defend their World Drivers’ Championship title while also striving to reclaim the World Constructors’ Championship. Horner assured that this move is strictly a sporting decision aimed at optimizing the team’s competitiveness on the track.
Lawson, who is set to partner with Isack Hadjar at Racing Bulls, was initially favored over Tsunoda to step into Sergio Perez’s seat during the off-season, despite having only a modest experience of 11 F1 race weekends. Horner noted that Tsunoda’s extensive experience will be invaluable in helping to refine and develop the RB21, which has faced its fair share of challenges early this season.
“We recognize that there is significant work to be done with the RB21, and Yuki’s vast experience will undoubtedly assist in enhancing the current car’s performance,” Horner added. “We are excited to welcome him to the team and look forward to witnessing his contributions behind the wheel of the RB21.”
The team is committed to ensuring Lawson receives the necessary support and development as he continues his career with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, a team and environment he knows intimately. This swift change is anticipated to give him the opportunity to gain experience and rebuild his confidence.
Lawson’s 2025 season has been fraught with difficulties; he has been eliminated in the first stage of every qualifying session, including one in the Sprint format. His race performances have also been hindered, with the young driver struggling to match the pace set by his teammate Verstappen. During his debut at the Australian Grand Prix, Lawson qualified in 18th position and faced a terrible crash in wet conditions, at one point being a lap down from the leaders.
At the Chinese Grand Prix, Lawson candidly expressed his frustration in an interview with Sky Sports F1, stating, “I don’t really have time,” following a second consecutive last-place qualifying finish while Verstappen secured a competitive spot on the second row. In an attempt to break the cycle of poor performance, Red Bull chose to start Lawson from the pit lane to radically alter the car’s setup. Unfortunately, this decision yielded little to no improvement, leaving the team with serious concerns.
“We aimed to make the car easier to handle and improve its balance, but regrettably, the changes we made resulted in the car becoming significantly slower,” Lawson admitted. He concluded with a note of resignation, reflecting on the challenges ahead: “It’s the way it is, and it’s something I have to come to terms with.” This determination underscores the uphill battle Lawson faces as he seeks to regain his footing and optimize his performance in what remains an incredibly competitive F1 environment. As the Japanese Grand Prix approaches, both drivers will be looking to seize their respective opportunities for growth and success.
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