Red Bull’s Decision to Promote Liam Lawson Over Yuki Tsunoda Signals a Bold Shift in F1 Strategy
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 community, Red Bull Racing has announced the promotion of Liam Lawson to partner Max Verstappen for the 2025 season, effectively sidelining Yuki Tsunoda despite his four years of F1 experience. The decision, explained by team principal Christian Horner, not only reshapes the team’s dynamics but also hints at a broader strategy for Red Bull’s future in the sport.
Lawson’s journey to one of the most coveted seats in motorsport has been anything but meteoric. A member of Red Bull’s junior program since 2018, the New Zealander’s steady rise has been marked by adaptability and consistent performance. His resume includes a championship in the Toyota Racing Series, a fifth-place finish in Formula 3, third place in Formula 2, and near wins in the DTM and Super Formula championships. However, it was his unexpected stint in 2023, stepping in for Daniel Ricciardo after a hand injury, that truly caught Red Bull’s attention. Over 11 races, Lawson exceeded expectations, holding his own against seasoned drivers and outperforming Tsunoda in key areas.
While Tsunoda managed to outscore Lawson by a narrow margin—8 points to 6—the latter’s composure and racecraft under pressure made a compelling case. At the United States Grand Prix, for example, Lawson climbed from the back of the grid to finish ninth despite an engine penalty. Such performances highlighted his potential, maturity, and ability to adapt quickly—qualities Red Bull values highly for its second driver role.
The decision to choose Lawson over Tsunoda also reflects lingering concerns about the Japanese driver’s temperament. Since his F1 debut in 2021, Tsunoda has shown flashes of brilliance but has been plagued by inconsistency and emotional outbursts. Earlier in 2024, a refusal to follow team orders and an aggressive cooldown lap incident raised eyebrows among Red Bull’s management. Horner’s comments emphasized the importance of temperament in the decision, stating, “Liam has the right characteristics and strength of character to deal with the pressure that comes with being Max’s teammate.”
This bold decision also signals Red Bull’s intent to secure a strong foundation for the future. The team’s focus is not solely on raw speed but on nurturing talent that can complement Verstappen’s dominance while ensuring consistent results. Lawson’s pragmatic mindset, as reflected in his statement, “Whether you’re fighting in the midfield or at the front, the approach is the same: focus on executing the best job you can,” further underscores his readiness for the challenge.
For Tsunoda, the outlook is less certain. Horner hinted at the possibility of his departure from the Red Bull system after 2025, stating, “You can’t have a driver in the support team for five years. At some point, you’ve either got to let them go or look at something different.” While Tsunoda will remain with AlphaTauri—renamed Racing Bulls—for 2025, his future in F1 depends on his ability to outshine his new teammate, rookie Isack Hadjar. The team’s improved integration of Red Bull technology may offer Tsunoda the platform he needs to revive his prospects, but the pressure to deliver has never been greater.
Meanwhile, another major storyline is unfolding as Lewis Hamilton gears up for his highly anticipated Ferrari debut in 2025. Reports suggest that the seven-time world champion recently visited Ferrari’s Maranello headquarters, marking the start of his transition after a historic 12-year stint with Mercedes. Hamilton’s move to Ferrari, replacing Carlos Sainz, is set to reshape the competitive landscape of F1. Ferrari’s 2025 car, featuring a pull-rod front suspension influenced by Hamilton’s driving style, reflects the team’s commitment to maximizing his strengths.
As the 2025 season approaches, the stakes are high for all parties involved. Red Bull’s decision to bet on Lawson underscores the fierce competition within its camp and the relentless pursuit of excellence. For Tsunoda, the upcoming season represents a make-or-break opportunity to prove his worth. And for Hamilton, the Ferrari chapter offers a chance to cement his legacy further. Formula 1’s ever-evolving narrative ensures that fans will be on the edge of their seats as these stories unfold
