Ruthless Red Bull replace Liam Lawson after two races
Red Bull have made the ruthless decision to replace Liam Lawson with Yuki Tsunoda from the next race in Japan.
This has come after a poor start to the season from the New Zealander, who was brought in to replace Sergio Perez for the start of this season after a poor season from the Mexican driver saw Red Bull lose the World Constructors’ title to McLaren last season.
Lawson had only competed in two races for Red Bull before being replaced, the shortest stint of any Red Bull junior since Pierre Gasly, who was replaced after 12 races in 2019.
Liam Lawson is not the only driver to be demoted from Red Bull in recent years… pic.twitter.com/YlPS5qfB2e
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Red Bull boss, Christian Horner, was asked about the situation and replied saying that the organisation “have a duty of care to protect and develop” their drivers.
Horner expressed that they felt the need to “act quickly” in order to maximise their chances at challenging for the World Constructors’ title this season and avoid a repeat of last year.
He added: “It has been difficult to see Liam struggle with the RB21, as a result, we have collectively taken the decision to make an early switch.
“We came into the 2025 season with two ambitions, to retain the World Drivers’ Championship and to reclaim the World Constructors’ title.
“This is purely a sporting decision.”
Tsunoda will partner world champion Max Verstappen who will look to have better fortune than former teammate Lawson. Lawson will return to Red Bull’s sister team Racing Bulls for the remainder of the season.
Horner recognised that Tsunoda’s experience “will prove highly beneficial in helping to develop the current car.”
He added: “We acknowledge that there is a lot of work to be done with the RB21, and we welcome Yuki to the team and are looking forward to seeing him behind the wheel of the RB21.”
Laurent Mekies, Team Principal at Racing Bulls, has spoken out in support of Lawson as he welcomes the former Racing Bulls driver back into the team.
“Everyone here at VCARB is looking forward to working hard with Liam.
“He fit in so well last year, we cannot wait to challenge ourselves and grow as a team.”
The Japanese Grand Prix is set to take place on the 6th April, where Tsunoda will make his debut for Red Bull at his home circuit.
Elsewhere, Lawson will be looking to kick-start his season and he will be hoping this move provides him with a fresh start.
