Red Bull Racing has made its decision, and it’s sensational news: Liam Lawson will replace Sergio Perez for the 2025 Formula 1 season, overtaking Yuki Tsunoda for one of the most coveted jobs in motorsport. The announcement, coming less than 24 hours after Perez and Red Bull parted ways, underlines the team’s confidence in the relatively inexperienced Lawson over the veteran Tsunoda, who spent four full seasons with AlphaTauri.
Lawson’s Tenacity Beats Tsunoda’s Experience
On paper, Tsunoda had the advantage. In their six grands prix together in 2024, Tsunoda qualified Lawson seven times to two (including Sprints) and beat him four times to two in Grands Prix. However, Red Bull’s decision suggests something beyond the numbers: a confidence in Lawson’s fighting spirit and his potential to grow into the role alongside Max Verstappen.
“Liam’s performances … showed that not only is he capable of solid results, but that he is also a real racer, not afraid to compete with the best and come out on top,” said Team Principal Christian Horner.
Lawson’s Star Power: Why Red Bull Bet
Lawson’s brief appearances in F1 showcased his fearlessness and resilience. His cameo in 2023, filling in for an injured Daniel Ricciardo, impressed the paddock, and his return in 2024 cemented his reputation as a combative outsider. Highlights like his comeback from 19th to 9th at the United States Grand Prix and his daring pass on Sergio Perez in Mexico—which included a famous one-finger salute—marked him as a driver with determination and character that Red Bull appreciates.
“Lawson reminds me of Bruce McLaren or Denny Hulme, very humble and mentally strong,” said Helmut Marko a Car Motor and Sport.
Lawson’s willingness to battle with veterans such as Fernando Alonso and even his team’s star driver, Perez, has likely tipped the scales in his favour. Red Bull appears to see in him a mentality that mirrors Verstappen’s tireless drive—a necessary trait to survive and thrive in the intense environment of the Red Bull garage.
Tsunoda’s Temperament Under Test
Tsunoda supporters, including Honda, may feel offended by Red Bull’s decision. The Japanese driver has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in 2024, where he has exceeded expectations. However, his fiery temper and occasional lapses in consistency have drawn criticism within the Red Bull team.
Despite being more experienced and statistically stronger than Lawson, Tsunoda’s perceived volatility may have cost him. Red Bull’s preference for drivers who can perform under pressure and remain calm likely played a key role in the decision.
The Future Challenge for Lawson
Stepping into the Red Bull seat is no ordinary promotion—it’s one of the most challenging jobs in motorsport. Sharing a garage with Max Verstappen means living up to the standard of a four-time World Champion while enduring relentless scrutiny. Lawson now faces the daunting task of closing the gap between Verstappen and Red Bull’s second seat, which Perez’s declining form has highlighted.
“Racing next to Max… is a challenging task,” Horner acknowledged. “But I’m sure Liam can meet this challenge and achieve amazing results for us next year.”
What’s Waiting for Yuki Tsunoda?
Tsunoda’s path remains uncertain. Even if he retains his place at AlphaTauri, the decision not to choose him for the Red Bull seat will certainly weigh. With Honda’s partnership with Aston Martin starting in 2026, Tsunoda’s future could change dramatically, especially if it continues to develop and impress.
Red Bull’s Gamble: Inspired or Risky?
By promoting Lawson, Red Bull reinforces its philosophy of nurturing young talent within its junior programme. Lawson follows in the footsteps of names like Sebastian Vettel and Verstappen himself. However, the pressure is enormous. If Lawson stumbles, critics will wonder why Red Bull passed Tsunoda, who many believe had earned his chance.
For now, Lawson has the opportunity of a lifetime—to prove he belongs at the top of Formula 1. His boldness, resilience and raw talent suggest he might be just the right driver for the job.
