Red Bull’s Swift Decision: Liam Lawson Out, Yuki Tsunoda In for F1 2025
Just two rounds into the F1 2025 season, Red Bull has made a dramatic mid-season driver swap, demoting Liam Lawson and promoting Yuki Tsunoda to the head team. The move comes after a series of less-than-stellar performances. Red Bull’s senior advisor, driver programme chief Helmut Marko said:
“Liam Lawson showed that he wasn’t ready for the increased pressure, and he went into a downward spiral as if he were a battered boxer. It was a mistake to pick Liam under these circumstances.”
The Rise and Fall of Liam Lawson
Red Bull initially called up Liam Lawson to replace Sergio Perez. Lawson had just 11 grands prix under his belt, but he was meant to replace Perez following the 2024 season. Marko said that Lawson was pegged as the permanent lead driver due to his perceived mental aptitude, before being moved backdue to overall scarcity in performance.
Yuki Tsunoda Gets His Shot
Yuki Tsunoda will drive alongside Max Verstappen, who this year alone has overpowered three teammates already. According to Team Principal Christian Horner,
The organization was assessing a number of options in order to retain the title, which writer is Horner noted, speak to an impressive, vistviorial experience.\
“It has been difficult to see Liam struggle,” said Horner in a statement, adding that they 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.”.
What’s Next for Liam Lawson?
Lawson will return to Racing Bulls, the team he is familiar with. Tsunoda joins the top team, replacing Lawson. Hadjer, who has made an impressive start to his F1 career, will continue to grow under the mentorship of the team and his previous experience.
A Look at Past Red Bull Mid-Season Swaps
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FAQ
Why was Liam Lawson demoted?
Liam Lawson struggled from the very beginning of his F1 2025 season following his promotion by Red Bull, with zero points and a trail of awful scores.
Who Replace Liam Lawson?
Yuki Tsunoda was brought in the same way he went out. Tsunoda is known to have striking driving skills, with some flaring ambition in the side.
Why was Tsunoda chosen over Lawson?
Tsunoda has a greater level of experience and is more consistent. Lawson was not able to perform well under the increased pressure of racing with Formula 1’s best drivers.