Red Bull Racing has once again shaken the foundations of Formula 1 with a dramatic decision that has left fans divided and one driver feeling deeply undervalued. The announcement that Liam Lawson, the young prodigy from New Zealand, will replace Sergio Pérez at Red Bull in 2025 alongside Max Verstappen has ignited fierce debate. However, the biggest shock isn’t just Lawson’s rapid promotion—it’s the exclusion of Yuki Tsunoda, a driver who has dedicated years to the Red Bull system, only to be overlooked when his chance seemed within reach.
Tsunoda’s omission feels like a bitter pill for both the Japanese driver and his loyal fans. After four seasons with AlphaTauri, Tsunoda has matured into a consistent and determined competitor. His 2024 campaign was his strongest yet, with frequent points finishes, impressive racecraft, and moments of brilliance that saw him outperform his experienced teammate, Daniel Ricciardo. Many saw Tsunoda as the natural heir to a Red Bull seat, given his growth and unwavering commitment to the team. Yet, when the time came, Red Bull chose to prioritize Lawson’s untapped potential over Tsunoda’s proven track record.
In a recent interview, Red Bull team principal Christian Horner praised Tsunoda, calling him an “incredible talent” who had made tremendous strides during his time at AlphaTauri. Horner highlighted Tsunoda’s standout performances, including his feedback and consistency during the Abu Dhabi tire test. But despite this glowing evaluation, Horner admitted that the decision between Lawson and Tsunoda came down to potential versus performance. “It was incredibly close,” Horner explained, “but ultimately, we believe Liam has more untapped potential. His race pace and qualifying performances in his limited F1 outings were slightly stronger than Yuki’s, even with far less experience.”
For Tsunoda, the words of praise may feel hollow in light of the decision. Reports suggest he is deeply frustrated, with his usually fiery demeanor noticeably subdued during recent public appearances. After years of battling under immense pressure as Japan’s sole representative in F1, carrying the hopes of a nation and the expectations of the Red Bull program, being passed over now—when his form is peaking—must feel like a cruel twist of fate.
Meanwhile, Lawson’s rise has been meteoric. After joining Red Bull’s junior program in 2019, he made a name for himself in the junior formulas before getting his big break in 2023, replacing an injured Ricciardo at AlphaTauri. Lawson’s composed performances in just five races, including a points finish at the grueling Singapore Grand Prix, showcased his ability to adapt quickly and deliver under pressure. His continued development as Red Bull’s reserve driver in 2024, capped by another points-scoring finish at the United States Grand Prix, cemented his status as a driver with enormous potential.
For Red Bull, this decision isn’t just about the present but about securing their future. With Verstappen dominating the sport, the team needs a second driver who can complement their long-term vision. Red Bull has built its reputation on taking bold risks with young talent, and Lawson represents a high-reward gamble. His trajectory aligns with their philosophy of nurturing future stars, even if it means making controversial choices along the way.
However, fans and analysts alike have questioned whether Red Bull has underestimated the value of experience. Tsunoda’s perseverance and development in the high-pressure environment of F1 have demonstrated his resilience and capability. Many believe he has earned his shot at the top team, and this snub feels like a betrayal of his loyalty and hard work. For Tsunoda, the decision marks a turning point in his career. Will he remain with AlphaTauri, or could this signal the beginning of the end for his time in F1?
The stakes for Red Bull are enormous. If Lawson thrives alongside Verstappen, the team’s gamble will be vindicated, and they may have found their next long-term asset. But if he struggles to meet the immense expectations, the backlash will be severe, and questions about Tsunoda’s exclusion will resurface with even greater intensity.
As fans grapple with this decision, one thing is certain: the 2025 F1 season promises to be one of the most unpredictable and drama-filled in recent history. Red Bull’s bold move has once again proven their willingness to take risks, but only time will tell if it pays off. For now, Tsunoda must channel his frustration into proving Red Bull wrong, while Lawson faces the daunting challenge of living up to the expectations of driving for one of the sport’s most dominant teams.
The controversy has sparked heated debates across the F1 community, leaving everyone to ponder: Did Red Bull make the right call in promoting Lawson, or have they unfairly sidelined a deserving Tsunoda? One thing is certain—this decision has added another layer of intrigue to the ever-evolving narrative of Formula 1
