Tsunoda is set to replace Lawson at Red Bull before the Japanese Grand Prix, according to a report. Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf states that Lawson will lose his seat, with Tsunoda stepping in after competing for Racing Bulls up until the Chinese Grand Prix.
Lawson had originally replaced Mexican driver Sergio ‘Checo’ Pérez at Red Bull for the 2025 F1 season, which is only two races into a 24-race Formula 1 calendar. However, his performance has been underwhelming, with zero points, one retirement, and qualifying positions of 18th, 20th, and 20th across two Grand Prix weekends and a Sprint race.
The report, authored by F1 journalist Erik van Haren—who is closely connected to the Verstappen camp—states that the decision was made on Tuesday during a meeting in Dubai between Red Bull’s executives and majority shareholder Chalerm Yoovidhya, who resides in the Emirate. The report also indicates that the move was finalized over the Chinese Grand Prix weekend and officially confirmed in Red Bull’s leadership summit.
Honda, a long-time supporter of Tsunoda, reportedly played a role in the decision, making the switch financially appealing for Red Bull. “The controversial and historically swift driver change is expected to be officially announced by the end of the week,” the report states.
Sergio Pérez had spent four full seasons at Red Bull alongside Max Verstappen, securing a runner-up finish in the F1 standings, five race wins, 29 podiums, and 14 one-two finishes alongside the four-time world champion. However, Pérez’s contract was reportedly terminated for €18 million.
Speculation suggests that Lawson will return to Racing Bulls, making this a direct F1 driver swap rather than an introduction of a new competitor to the Formula 1 teams.
Despite both Christian Horner and Max Verstappen acknowledging that the Red Bull car has been difficult to handle—Max even suggesting that Lawson might perform better at Racing Bulls—Liam’s stint at Red Bull may go down as one of the shortest and most disappointing in the team’s history.
According to Helmut Marko’s statements to De Telegraaf, another summit is expected to take place on Thursday at Red Bull’s headquarters in Milton Keynes. Verstappen himself will reportedly attend as the team navigates its challenging start to the season.