Red Bull Contemplates Driver Swap: Lawson Out, Tsunoda In for Japanese GP

Red Bull Racing is reportedly weighing the possibility of dropping Liam Lawson after just two races in the 2025 Formula 1 season. According to sources close to ESPN, the team is strongly considering replacing Lawson with Yuki Tsunoda for the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix. Lawson’s struggles in the opening races have raised concerns within the team, prompting this potential mid-season shake-up.

Lawson’s Rough Start

Lawson’s debut with Red Bull has been far from ideal. After a DNF (Did Not Finish) in Australia and a disappointing 12th-place finish in China (initially 15th before disqualifications of other drivers), the pressure on the young driver has intensified. Adding to his woes, Lawson has failed to advance past Q1 in all three qualifying sessions so far this season. These performances have sparked speculation that Red Bull might be ready to pull the plug on his stint with the team.

Tsunoda’s Opportunity

Meanwhile, Yuki Tsunoda, who has been with Red Bull’s junior team, Racing Bulls, for the past four years, could finally get his chance to step up. While Tsunoda was initially overlooked for the Red Bull seat this season, Lawson’s struggle has opened the door for the Japanese driver to make his return to the main team, especially at his home Grand Prix in Japan.

Lawson’s Response

Lawson has acknowledged the challenges he’s facing but remains focused on improving his performance. When asked about his comments on lacking time to adapt to the car, he clarified:

“It’s more about being in the middle of the season already. I don’t have time to test the car and get used to it, so each race we’re losing points. But I’m here to perform, and if I’m not doing that, I know I won’t be around. My focus is on adapting as quickly as possible.”

Horner’s Dilemma

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has remained tight-lipped about the potential driver swap. When pressed on the matter after the Chinese GP, Horner stated:

“Everything is purely speculative at the moment. We’ve just finished this race and need to evaluate the situation. Liam still has potential, but we’re just not seeing it right now.”

Horner’s refusal to affirm Lawson’s position for the Japanese GP has only fueled speculation that a change is imminent.

Colapinto’s Future

In addition to the Lawson-Tsunoda saga, rumors have emerged linking Franco Colapinto to Red Bull’s junior team. However, sources indicate that the Argentine driver is more likely to replace Jack Doohan at Alpine before the European leg of the season begins. This move, if it happens, would not directly impact Lawson’s position but adds another layer of intrigue to the ongoing driver market discussions.

What’s Next?

With the Japanese GP just around the corner, Red Bull is expected to make a decision early this week. Whether Lawson retains his seat or Tsunoda steps in, the move will undoubtedly have significant implications for both drivers and the team’s championship aspirations. Stay tuned for updates as the situation unfolds.