Importance Score: 30 / 100 🔵
Formula One Driver Shake-Up: Liam Lawson Reacts to Red Bull Racing Seat Change
In a significant driver change within Formula One, Liam Lawson has addressed his departure from Red Bull Racing. The rising star issued a heartfelt statement on social media after the team confirmed on Thursday that he would be replaced after just two races. Red Bull has opted to place Yuki Tsunoda from their sister team, Racing Bulls, into Lawson’s position, with Lawson moving in the opposite direction to join Isack Hadjar at Racing Bulls.
Performance Pressures and Driver Decision
Team Principal Christian Horner initially selected the 23-year-old Lawson over Tsunoda as a potential teammate for Max Verstappen at the conclusion of 2024. However, this decision was perceived as a gamble, considering Lawson’s limited experience of just 11 Formula One race weekends. Lawson encountered difficulties adapting to the RB21 car at the beginning of the season. The New Zealander struggled in qualifying sessions, failing to advance beyond Q1 in his initial three attempts, including a Sprint format session, and subsequently retired from the Australian Grand Prix due to a crash.
Prior to the incident in Melbourne, Lawson had already been lapped, demonstrating a struggle to establish race pace, before ultimately achieving a P16 finish in the Chinese Grand Prix.
Conversely, Verstappen secured consistent results in the first three races, finishing P2, P3, and P4, accumulating all 36 points for Red Bull in the Constructors’ Championship.
Tsunoda, having already secured three points in the 2025 season, will now be presented with an opportunity to solidify his position alongside Verstappen after spending four years with Red Bull’s secondary team.
Lawson’s Emotional Response and Gratitude
Following the confirmation of his demotion, Lawson released an emotional message on Instagram, accompanied by poignant images that depicted his lifelong aspiration of becoming a Formula One driver becoming a reality.
In his statement, he expressed:
“Becoming a @redbullracing driver has been my ambition since childhood; it’s what I’ve dedicated my entire career towards.”
“This is a challenging moment, but I am thankful for all experiences that have led me to this juncture. To everyone who has supported me, your backing means the world.”
“Thank you, @visacashapprb, for the kind reception. I am enthusiastic and prepared to work at one of my preferred locations.”
Tsunoda’s Reaction to Red Bull Opportunity
Tsunoda also shared a brief response on Instagram, posting a first glimpse of himself in Red Bull team apparel with the caption: “Ready for the challenge ahead.”
Horner Justifies “Sporting Decision”
Red Bull’s Perspective on Driver Change
Horner characterized the driver change as a “sporting decision,” emphasizing Red Bull’s “responsibility to protect and nurture Liam’s development.”
“Observing Liam’s struggles with the RB21 in the initial two races has been challenging, prompting a collective decision to implement an early alteration,” the Red Bull team principal explained.
He further stated: “We acknowledge the substantial development required for the RB21, and Yuki’s expertise will be invaluable in contributing to the current car’s progression.”
“Expediting this change allows Liam to acquire further experience within Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, a familiar environment and team, as he progresses in his Formula One career.”