F1: Yuki Tsunoda Replaces Liam Lawson at Red Bull Ahead of Japanese Grand Prix

Red Bull Racing has dropped Liam Lawson after just two races in the 2025 Formula 1 season. Yuki Tsunoda will take his place and make his senior team debut at the Japanese Grand Prix. Lawson, who had replaced Sergio Perez before the 2025 season has failed to score points in the first two races and the sprint. Red Bull hopes Tsunoda can deliver better results. Lawson struggled with the RB21 car despite his Racing Bulls experience. He crashed in wet conditions in Melbourne and finished twelfth in China, helped only by disqualifications. His qualifying was also poor, with Q1 exits in every session and pointless finishes in both the sprint and main races in China. With Max Verstappen scoring 36 points and Lawson none, Red Bull quickly sent him back to Racing Bulls.

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The driver swap shows Red Bull’s demand for quick results. Tsunoda now has a big chance but faces pressure to perform at his home race. With Verstappen leading the charge, Tsunoda must prove himself quickly. Red Bull’s bold move could either pay off or cause new problems.

Team Principal and CEO Christian Horner said: 'It has been difficult to see Liam struggle with the RB21 at the first two races and, 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 and this is a purely sporting decision.

'We acknowledge there is a lot of work to be done with the RB21 and Yuki's experience will prove highly beneficial in helping to develop the current car. We welcome him to the Team and are looking forward to seeing him behind the wheel of the RB21.

'We have a duty of care to protect and develop Liam and together, we see that after such a difficult start, it makes sense to act quickly so Liam can gain experience, as he continues his F1 career with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, an environment and a Team he knows very well.'

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All eyes will be on Yuki Tsunoda at Suzuka next week as he makes his senior team debut. He will aim to match Max Verstappen’s pace and strengthen Red Bull’s fight in the Constructors’ Championship.