Red Bull affirm Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson swap in Christian Horner ‘responsibility of care’ declare
Red Bull have confirmed that Yuki Tsunoda will replace Liam Lawson at the Japanese Grand Prix, as Christian Horner makes a ‘duty of care’ claim
Red Bull have confirmed that Yuki Tsunoda will replace Liam Lawson at the Japanese Grand Prix, with Christian Horner explaining the decision.
Following the Chinese Grand Prix, speculation has been rife that Lawson would be replaced by Tsunoda in the Red Bull second seat after just two races of the season.
Lawson, who was Tsunoda’s team-mate at Racing Bulls over the second half of last season, has failed to score points in the opening two Grand Prix and sprint race of the 2025 season. He is now set to return to the sister team after just two races.
The decision was finally confirmed on Thursday by Red Bull, whose Team Principal and CEO Horner gave an explanation on the change.
“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,” Horner said.
“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.
“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.”
Tsunoda will make his debut in the Red Bull team alongside Max Verstappen in his home race at Suzuka. The 24-year-old is in his fifth year season on the F1 grid and has quietly impressed with consistent performances.
He is yet to appear on the podium, with a fourth place finish in the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix his highest finish to date.
Tsunoda finished P6 in the sprint race in China but botched strategy calls cost him a points finish in the opening two Grand Prix of the season.
