With news emerging about Liam Lawson replacing Sergio Perez at Red Bull in 2025, Formula 1 fans are outraged at Yuki Tsunoda’s apparent exclusion from contention. Has Red Bull overlooked one of its brightest talents?
Perez’s tenure at Red Bull in crisis
Sergio Perezwho joined Red Bull in 2021, is said to be on his way out after a season marked by inconsistency. Despite starting 2024 with four podiums in the first five races, Perez’s form dropped sharply after Chinese Grand Prixcontributing to Red Bull losing the Constructors’ Championship to McLaren.
while Perez’s exit seems inevitable, the decision to promote Liam Lawson at the expense of Yuki Tsunoda has sparked widespread criticism among fans, who feel the Japanese driver has been unfairly sidelined.
Tsunoda: The overlooked contender
Yuki Tsunoda, currently competing for Red Bull’s sister team VCARBhas consistently proven his worth in Formula 1. Fans argue that Tsunoda has outperformed his peers, including Daniel Ricciardo, Nyck De Vries and even Liam Lawsonin the last two seasons.
Tsunoda’s outstanding performances and technical prowess were showcased during a post-season test with the RB20where he impressed with his feedback and adaptability. However, despite being part of the Red Bull system since 2019, Tsunoda has never had the opportunity to race for the main team, a glaring omission that fans are calling out.
Fan Anger Eclipses
News of Lawson’s alleged promotion has sparked a wave of criticism from F1 fans, who believe Tsunoda’s exclusion is both unfair and illogical. Social media platforms are flooded with comments expressing disbelief and frustration:
“Yuki Tsunoda should leave. Take a year off and then come back with Cadillac or any other team.”
“Yuki Tsunoda outperformed Ricciardo, Lawson and De Vries, yet was never seriously considered for the Red Bull seat. What a joke!”
“If Liam Lawson gets the Red Bull seat instead of Yuki, Yuki must leave the program and find a team that truly values his talent.”
“How can Red Bull neglect Yuki Tsunoda like this? Is there any logical reason behind this?”
The History of Red Bull’s Controversial Decisions
Red Bull’s driver selection process has long been under scrutiny, with fans often questioning the team’s criteria for promotions. While Liam Lawson has shown potential during his appearances as a replacement in 2024, many argue that his work pales in comparison to Tsunoda’s consistency and experience.
Tsunoda not only proved himself on the track, but also showed loyalty to the Red Bull program, renewing his contract with VCARB despite limited opportunities for advancement. Now fans are calling for the 23-year-old to seek opportunities elsewhere, suggesting he would be better valued at a team like Cadillac Racing or another emerging force in Formula 1.
Zak Brown’s Tattoo Tradition Continues
With McLaren celebrating its long-overdue title, one question hovers in the paddock: What tattoo will Zak Brown get next?
Il CEO of McLarenknown for commemorating major milestones in ink, has already tattooed the victories of Italian GP 2021 by Daniel Ricciardo and ‘s first F1 triumph Lando Norris. No, Christian Horner He can’t wait to see how Brown will celebrate this historic Constructors’ title.
“I can’t wait to see what tattoo Zak gets for a World Constructors’ Championship,” Horner joked.
What’s in store for Tsunoda and Red Bull?
While fans side with Tsunoda, Red Bull finds itself at a crossroads. The decision to promote Liam Lawson over Tsunoda could have lasting consequences for the team’s reputation and its ability to retain talent.
Yuki Tsunoda he must now decide whether to continue fighting for a place within the Red Bull system or explore opportunities with teams who may better recognize his value.
For Red Bull, the fans’ reaction serves as a reminder that they are watching—and they aren’t afraid to criticize decisions that seem unfair or short-sighted.
