Sports
Red Bull Drops Liam Lawson for Yuki Tsunoda After Just Two Races
Red Bull has confirmed a surprise driver swap, with Japanese racer Yuki Tsunoda replacing Liam Lawson in their second seat just two races into the 2025 Formula 1 season. Lawson will return to his previous team, Racing Bulls, for the remainder of the season, Red Bull CEO Christian Horner announced.
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Speculation had been mounting about Lawson’s future after his struggles in the opening rounds. The 23-year-old Kiwi started both races from the pit lane, crashing out of the Chinese Grand Prix last weekend. His difficulties adapting to the RB21 raised doubts about his ability to keep the seat.
Tsunoda, meanwhile, has shown steady progress at Racing Bulls, finishing 12th in last year’s Driver Standings with 30 points. His promotion marks a significant opportunity to prove himself at the top level of the sport.
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The 24-year-old will debut in his new role at the Japanese Grand Prix, a race he has previously described as one of the most intense on his calendar due to home expectations. Now, alongside three-time world champion Max Verstappen, that pressure is set to increase.
Christian Horner emphasized that the decision was purely based on performance and Red Bull’s title ambitions.
“It has been difficult to see Liam struggle with the RB21, and as a result, we have made an early switch. Our goal remains to retain the Drivers’ Championship and reclaim the Constructors’ title,” Horner stated.
Red Bull has faced ongoing difficulties in securing a strong second driver, with claims that their cars are built primarily around Verstappen’s driving style. Tsunoda’s experience with the Red Bull system could provide an advantage in car development.
While Lawson’s F1 future remains uncertain, Horner assured that his move back to Racing Bulls will allow him to develop further in a familiar environment.
The move sets the stage for an intriguing season, with Tsunoda now tasked with proving himself in one of the sport’s most demanding seats.
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Sourced:IOL
