A surprising driver change might be on the horizon at Red Bull Racing. According to reports from the French TV channel Canal+ and Dutch journalist Erik van Haren, the team is considering replacing Liam Lawson with Yuki Tsunoda due to disappointing performances from the young New Zealander.
Liam Lawson, who started the season with high hopes, has struggled in the first three races. After failing to advance beyond Q1 and retiring from the Australian Grand Prix, he also finished last in qualifying at the Chinese GP, once again failing to score any points.
These underwhelming results have reportedly tested Red Bull’s patience, with the team now prioritizing a more consistent performer. Yuki Tsunoda’s steady pace and ability to secure points more frequently have put him in the spotlight.
Additionally, Red Bull’s engine supplier, Honda, is rumored to be backing this change. Reports suggest that the Japanese manufacturer has offered a multi-million-dollar sponsorship package to support Tsunoda’s promotion as Max Verstappen’s teammate.
This move is expected to be finalized before the Japanese Grand Prix, with a possible official announcement coming at Suzuka.
While Red Bull has yet to make an official statement, Helmut Marko’s recent praise of Tsunoda adds weight to these speculations.
"Yuki is not the same as in previous years. He is at the peak of his form and much more mature," Marko stated, emphasizing the Japanese driver’s development.
With the Suzuka race approaching, the Formula 1 world eagerly awaits further developments and an official confirmation from Red Bull.