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Verstappen Appears to Question Red Bull’s Lawson Decision
Formula One champion Max Verstappen has seemingly expressed disapproval of Red Bull Racing’s decision to replace Liam Lawson, by endorsing a social media post suggesting the move was excessively harsh. The post, from former F1 driver Giedo van der Garde, characterized the driver change as potentially bordering on “bullying” rather than a strategic team adjustment. This development follows reports indicating Verstappen’s unease with the team’s handling of Lawson’s exit.
Verstappen’s Social Media Activity Fuels Speculation
Sources close to Max Verstappen reportedly informed media outlets that the Dutch driver was “shaken” by Red Bull team principal Christian Horner’s choice to dismiss his 23-year-old teammate, Liam Lawson. Horner stated on Thursday that while Red Bull is committed to nurturing driver talent, Lawson’s performances at the beginning of the 2025 season were deemed insufficient, leading to a collective decision to terminate his contract. Horner also indicated Lawson’s struggles adapting to the RB21 car.
Yuki Tsunoda is now slated to take over Lawson’s seat starting with the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix. However, Red Bull’s abrupt decision has faced criticism within the Formula One community.
Former Driver Criticizes Red Bull’s “Brutal” Approach
Giedo van der Garde, a former Formula One driver, has openly criticized the surprising driver swap. The ex-Caterham and Sauber driver condemned Red Bull for, in his words, “crushing Lawson’s spirit” after only granting him two races. Verstappen’s apparent endorsement of this viewpoint, albeit seemingly retracted shortly after, adds another layer of intrigue to the situation.
Max Verstappen seemingly liked a social media post critical of Red Bull’s decision to dismiss Liam Lawson.
Dutch driver Giedo van der Garde used social media to claim the move to replace Lawson was more akin to ‘bullying’ than a strategic decision.
Lawson was given a Red Bull seat during the off-season but struggled for form in the initial two races of the season.
Van der Garde’s Instagram Post Highlights Lawson’s Plight
“I’m increasingly weary of the constant remarks asserting that Formula One is the most demanding sport concerning performance, where underperformance immediately brings consequences,” Van der Garde posted on Instagram, alongside a picture of Lawson. He continued, “Performance is essential, and pressure is immense, but this situation, in my view, resembles bullying or a panicked reaction more than a response to top-tier athletic achievement. They made a considered choice, gave Liam only two races, only to demoralize him.”
Lawson’s Performance and Red Bull’s Rationale
Liam Lawson experienced a challenging start to the 2025 season. The New Zealand driver notably crashed in the rain-affected Australian Grand Prix qualifying, where he had already finished 18th. The following week at the Chinese Grand Prix, he qualified last and finished the Sunday race in 18th place. His brief tenure with Red Bull Racing marks the shortest period a driver has occupied a seat in Formula One history, excluding instances of illness or injury, surpassing Yuji Ide’s four races for Super Aguri in 2006.
Support for Lawson Amidst Team Turmoil
Acknowledging the severity of the decision, Van der Garde also encouraged Lawson to remain positive, urging the young driver to “keep his head up.”
“Do not disregard the dedication, effort, and success Liam has achieved in his career to reach his current level. I recall my own struggles and sacrifices just to reach F1, let alone drive for a leading team,” Van der Garde added.
“Yes, he underperformed in the initial two races – a fact he is likely most aware of. Perhaps this change was even his suggestion, but if not, I wish Liam strength and resolve to return to the grid in Japan,” Van der Garde stated, concluding with a message of encouragement: “Trust yourself, stay positive, and prove them wrong.”
Sources Indicate Broader Concerns Within Red Bull
Insiders have also conveyed their apprehension about the decision to media outlets. This development follows suggestions from Helmut Marko that Red Bull Racing leadership planned an emergency meeting after the Chinese Grand Prix.
Sources close to the situation have informed media outlets that Verstappen is reportedly ‘shaken’ by the decision to replace Lawson.
Reports indicate that Red Bull leadership held an emergency meeting recently (pictured: Horner and Marko).
Yuki Tsunoda will now replace Lawson in the RB21 for the Japanese Grand Prix, while Lawson will return to Racing Bulls.
“Unfair Treatment” Claims Source
“It is completely unjust to treat Liam in this manner,” an anonymous source close to the situation told media outlets. “You must grant him more than two races to demonstrate his capabilities after dedicating his entire life to this opportunity.”
“While his performance may have been below expectations, dismissing him so swiftly is seriously detrimental. It suggests a team in disarray,” the source added.
Lawson was promoted to Red Bull during the off-season, succeeding Sergio Perez.
Lawson’s Ominous Pre-Race Comment
Lawson had seemingly anticipated the decision on the eve of the Chinese Grand Prix, telling Sky Sports F1, “I don’t really have time,” after qualifying last.
Red Bull’s Attempts to Aid Lawson and Team Objectives
Red Bull reportedly implemented significant adjustments to Lawson’s car, aiming to improve his grid position. He started from the pit lane in both the Australian and Chinese Grand Prix, but without improved results.
Addressing the decision to part ways with Lawson, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner reiterated the team’s goals for the season, amidst growing questions about Red Bull’s current trajectory.
“It has been concerning to observe Liam’s difficulties with the RB21 in the initial two races, prompting a collective decision for an immediate change,” Horner stated.
Lawson has not yet publicly commented on the decision but faced a challenging start to the 2025 season, with Horner citing the Kiwi’s ‘struggles with the RB21’.
Concerns are mounting regarding Red Bull’s current direction, given the speed of recent team decisions.
Red Bull Prioritizes Championship Ambitions with Tsunoda
“We entered the 2025 season with two primary objectives: to defend both the world drivers’ and world constructors’ championships. This decision is purely performance-based,” Horner clarified.
“We recognize the substantial development required for the RB21, and Yuki’s experience is expected to be highly advantageous in refining the current car.”
“We welcome him to the team and are eager to see him drive the RB21.”
“We have a responsibility to support and nurture Liam’s career progression. Given his challenging start, we collectively agreed that acting swiftly is sensible, allowing Liam to gain further experience with Racing Bulls, a familiar team and environment,” Horner concluded.
Lawson has not yet issued a statement regarding the decision.