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F1 Fans Furious as Yuki Tsunoda Misses Out on Red Bull Promotion to Liam Lawson

Harry Stone by Harry Stone
December 30, 2024
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 4 mins read
0
Helmut Marko Questions Tsunoda’s Stability for Red Bull Promotion: Speed Without Consistency

Formula One F1 - Qatar Grand Prix - Lusail International Circuit, Lusail, Qatar - November 29, 2024 RB's Yuki Tsunoda arrives before practice REUTERS/Rula Rouhana

The Formula 1 world has erupted in frustration following Red Bull Racing’s announcement that Liam Lawson will partner Max Verstappen starting in 2025, bypassing fan-favorite Yuki Tsunoda despite the Japanese driver’s strong performances. The decision has sparked heated debate across social media, with many fans calling out what they see as an unfair snub.


Tsunoda’s Stellar Season Not Enough

Tsunoda, who has been a consistent performer for AlphaTauri (now Racing Bulls), outshone Lawson in their head-to-head qualifying battles in 2024, beating the New Zealander 6-0. He also dominated his teammates, including Nyck de Vries and Daniel Ricciardo, earning widespread praise for his consistency and feedback.

After an impressive showing in the post-season test at Abu Dhabi, where he drove the Red Bull RB20 for the first time, expectations for Tsunoda’s promotion were high. Even Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s outspoken advisor, commended his performance during the test, citing his ability to adapt quickly and provide valuable input.
“He impressed the engineers with his feedback and commitment,” Marko said at the time.

Tsunoda himself declared the RB20 a joy to drive, saying, “I can understand why this car won the constructors’ championship—it’s simply outstanding.” However, none of this translated into the promotion many felt he deserved.


Liam Lawson: The Chosen Successor

Instead, Red Bull has opted to elevate Liam Lawson, a driver Marko described as “a raw talent with immense potential.” Lawson impressed during his stand-in performances in 2023 and has been groomed as a future Red Bull driver ever since.

While the decision aligns with Red Bull’s track record of identifying and fast-tracking young talent, it has left fans questioning why Tsunoda was overlooked despite his clear improvement and loyalty to the Red Bull program since his debut in 2021.


Fan Outrage

Tsunoda’s fans took to X (formerly Twitter) to voice their dismay:

  • “Yuki has been outperforming everyone he’s been paired with and still doesn’t get the promotion? What’s the point of proving yourself if it’s not rewarded?” wrote one user.
  • “Red Bull’s favoritism strikes again. Tsunoda deserves that seat way more than Lawson,” another added.

Tsunoda’s engaging personality, fiery radio outbursts, and connection with fans, especially at the Suzuka International Racing Course, have made him a beloved figure in the sport. His snub has amplified calls for greater recognition of his talent.


What’s Next for Tsunoda?

Despite this setback, Tsunoda remains with Racing Bulls for 2025, where he will have another chance to prove himself against both Lawson and Verstappen. While he has expressed disappointment privately, Tsunoda is determined to continue pushing forward.

Red Bull Team Principal Christian Horner acknowledged the backlash but stood by the decision:
“It’s a tough choice, but we believe Liam has shown the qualities needed for the main team. Yuki has been fantastic, and his journey isn’t over—he remains a vital part of our program.”


The Bigger Picture

For Red Bull, this decision underscores their preference for long-term prospects, even if it risks alienating fans. But with Lawson stepping into a seat next to Verstappen, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Meanwhile, Tsunoda must dig deeper to keep his F1 dreams alive, showing the resilience that has endeared him to so many.

The 2025 season will be pivotal, not just for Red Bull’s championship ambitions but also for Tsunoda’s career trajectory. Fans will be watching closely to see if this is the start of something great for Lawson—or an opportunity missed with Tsunoda.

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