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While the debate around Tsunoda’s selection continues, Verstappen insists that Red Bull’s biggest concern is the RB21 itself, not who occupies the second seat. McLaren has dominated the opening rounds, securing wins in Australia and China, including a one-two finish in Shanghai. As a result, while Verstappen sits just eight points behind championship leader Lando Norris, Red Bull trails McLaren by 42 points in the Constructors’ standings.
“I think our main issue is that our car is not where we want it to be,” Verstappen admitted. “I think everyone knows that within the team as well, and that’s what I focus on, to be honest. Because as soon as the car is more competitive and more drivable in general, then I think even in the second car, it will come to you anyway a bit more naturally.”
As Tsunoda embarks on this high-stakes challenge with Red Bull, the pressure is on to prove himself in one of the most scrutinized seats on the F1 grid. Whether he can unlock the RB21’s potential and support Verstappen’s title bid remains to be seen.
Driver Swap
Tsunoda enters his first race weekend as a Red Bull driver on home turf in Japan. This opportunity came after Red Bull made a bold move, swapping out Liam Lawson just three races into the 2025 season. Lawson had struggled significantly in the RB21, failing to advance beyond Q1 or secure points in Australia and China, prompting Red Bull to reinstate Tsunoda from Racing Bulls.
However, reports surfaced that Verstappen was not pleased with the driver swap, a sentiment later confirmed by Red Bull’s senior advisor Helmut Marko. When pressed on his reaction to Tsunoda’s appointment, Verstappen shared:
_“My reaction was shared with the team. But in general, you know, about not only the swap, but I think about everything. We discussed that already during last race weekend back at the factory.”_
When asked whether he agreed with Red Bull’s decision, Verstappen remained diplomatic:
_“Like I said, everything has been shared with the team, how I think about everything. Sometimes it’s not necessary to always share, let’s say, everything in public.”_
