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Yuki Tsunoda is set to replace Liam Lawson at Red Bull for the upcoming Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix, which will be his home race too. Lawson will be demoted back to sister concern team Racing Bulls in a straight-seat swap.
Yuki Tsunoda replaces Liam Lawson at Red Bull
Red Bull preferred Liam Lawson over Yuki Tsunoda when the former champion team dropped Sergio Perez from their ranks at the end of last season. The 23-year-old is yet to open his account in the 2025 season. Lawson didn't score points in the opener Australian Grand Pix and finished 12th in the Chinese Grand Prix.
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, Red Bull team boss Christian Horner said in a statement on Thursday.
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.
Yuki Tsunoda has been backed by Honda throughout his career, who is Red Bull's engine partner until the end of the season and are also the owner of the Suzuka circuit which will host the Japanese Grand Prix on April 6.
Tsunoda finished 12th during the Australian Grand Prix and crossed the chequered flag 16th in the Chinese Grand Prix.
