Atanaria
The world of Formula 1 has witnessed an unexpected yet highly anticipated shake-up, with Yuki Tsunoda earning his long-awaited promotion to Oracle Red Bull Racing. This move, effective from the Japanese Grand Prix, sees the Japanese driver replacing Liam Lawson, who has been transferred back to Racing Bulls after a challenging start to the 2025 season.
Tsunoda’s Journey to Red Bull Racing
Yuki Tsunoda, a graduate of Honda’s driver development program, has been an integral part of the Red Bull driver pipeline. Since making his Formula 1 debut in 2021 with what was then AlphaTauri (now Racing Bulls), Tsunoda has consistently showcased his raw talent and aggressive driving style. Over the years, he has steadily improved, refining his racecraft and gaining valuable experience.
His career highlights include:
- 2016: Completed Suzuka Circuit Racing School Formula (SRS-F)
- 2017: JAF F4 Japanese Championship East Series Champion, 3rd in Japanese FIA F4 Championship
- 2018: Japanese FIA F4 Champion
- 2019: 9th in FIA F3 Championship with one win, three podiums
- 2020: 3rd in FIA F2 Championship with three wins, seven podiums, and four pole positions
- 2021: F1 debut with AlphaTauri; best result: 4th place
- 2024: Best result: 7th place, season standing: 12th
Now, after four full seasons in F1, Tsunoda finally gets the opportunity to race for Red Bull’s main team, partnering with three-time world champion Max Verstappen. The move is seen as a reward for his consistent performances and deep familiarity with Honda-powered machinery, a crucial factor as Red Bull continues its close technical partnership with Honda Racing Corporation (HRC).
Christian Horner’s Statement on the Driver Swap
Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner confirmed that the decision to replace Lawson was made to ensure the team remains competitive in both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships. With Verstappen currently second in the standings and Lawson struggling to adapt to the RB21, Horner explained that the swap was necessary to maximize the team’s chances in 2025.
“It has been difficult to see Liam struggle with the RB21 at the first two races, and as a result, we have collectively taken the decision to make an early switch,” said Horner. “Yuki’s experience will be invaluable in helping to develop the current car. We welcome him to the team and are looking forward to seeing him behind the wheel of the RB21.”
Liam Lawson’s Tough Start and Transfer to Racing Bulls
For Liam Lawson, this move marks an abrupt end to his short-lived Red Bull tenure after just two races. The young New Zealander had been chosen ahead of Tsunoda to replace Sergio Perez over the winter, but a poor start to the season led to Red Bull opting for a quick change. Lawson struggled in both qualifying and race conditions, failing to score a single point while his teammate Verstappen remained at the front.
Lawson’s 2025 results before the swap:
- Australian GP Qualifying: 18th
- Australian GP Race: DNF
- Chinese GP Sprint Qualifying: 20th
- Chinese GP Sprint Race: 14th
- Chinese GP Qualifying: 20th
- Chinese GP Race: 12th
Despite the disappointment, Red Bull remains committed to Lawson’s development, ensuring he continues his F1 journey with Racing Bulls, where he will partner with Isack Hadjar.
Tsunoda’s Reaction and A Look At The Future
Tsunoda expressed his excitement about the promotion and the chance to race for Red Bull on home soil at the Suzuka Circuit.
“I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity and can’t wait to race alongside Max. I want to thank Honda, Red Bull, and everyone who has supported me. It’s a dream come true to be part of the main team, and I’ll give everything to prove I deserve this seat.”
With this move, Tsunoda becomes the latest driver to graduate from Red Bull’s junior team to the main outfit, following in the footsteps of names like Sebastian Vettel, Daniel Ricciardo, and Pierre Gasly. His experience with Red Bull’s technical setup and Honda power units will be crucial as he aims to challenge for podiums and solidify his place in the sport’s elite.
As the Formula 1 paddock heads to Japan for the next round of the championship, all eyes will be on Tsunoda as he makes his Red Bull debut in front of his home crowd. The pressure will be immense, but if history has shown anything, Tsunoda thrives when given a challenge.
In the meantime, read our feature on Yuki Tsunoda and see you in Suzuka!
