Tsunoda replaces Lawson at Red Bull for Japan GP

New Delhi

Red Bull has announced that Yuki Tsunoda will replace Liam Lawson from the Japanese Grand Prix onwards. Tsunoda's promotion follows a tough start to the Formula 1 season for Lawson, who struggled in the opening two races in Melbourne and Shanghai. He failed to finish in the season opener and finished 12th in the Chinese Grand Prix, despite benefiting from disqualifications of other drivers.

Lawson had initially joined Red Bull as a replacement for the departing Sergio Perez, partnering Max Verstappen. However, with Lawson's performance under scrutiny, rumors quickly emerged that Tsunoda could take his seat as early as the third race in Japan, and these have now been confirmed.

Tsunoda, who made his F1 debut with AlphaTauri in 2021, has shown consistent improvement in recent seasons, including a standout 2024 campaign where he scored 30 of his team’s 46 points. His strong performances earned him a post-season test with Red Bull, although Lawson was initially chosen to fill the 2025 seat.

Tsunoda, now in his fifth F1 season, expressed understanding over Red Bull’s decision to go with Lawson earlier but is now excited to join the team alongside Verstappen. His first race for Red Bull will be at his home Grand Prix in Suzuka, Japan, on April 4-6.

Laurent Mekies, Racing Bulls’ Team Principal, praised Tsunoda’s development and success, wishing him well in his new role with the championship-winning squad.