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Johnny Herbert Slams Red Bull for Overlooking Yuki Tsunoda in Favor of Liam Lawson

Miguel Cunha by Miguel Cunha
December 20, 2024
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
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Johnny Herbert Slams Red Bull for Overlooking Yuki Tsunoda in Favor of Liam Lawson

ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - DECEMBER 06: Yuki Tsunoda of Japan and Visa Cash App RB and Liam Lawson of New Zealand and Visa Cash App RB take a selfie at the Visa Cash App RB team photo after practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi at Yas Marina Circuit on December 06, 2024 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202412150003 // Usage for editorial use only //

The decision to promote Liam Lawson over Yuki Tsunoda to the Red Bull senior team has ignited a firestorm of criticism, with former Formula 1 driver and FIA steward Johnny Herbert leading the charge. Despite Tsunoda’s superior performance metrics, Red Bull opted to elevate rookie Lawson, leaving Tsunoda to continue with AlphaTauri. Herbert minced no words in expressing his disappointment, calling Red Bull’s decision “wrong” and a missed opportunity to reward Tsunoda’s grit and growth.


Tsunoda’s Strong Case for the Red Bull Seat

Yuki Tsunoda, who has shown significant progress and consistency, emerged as a favorite among fans and experts for the coveted Red Bull seat. The 24-year-old Japanese driver showcased a clean sweep against Lawson in all six qualifying sessions they contested, underlining his edge in one-lap pace and mental fortitude.

Herbert highlighted Tsunoda’s “feistiness” and unflinching honesty both on and off the track.

“The one who has impressed me the most is Yuki. I like his feistiness; he’s not afraid to shout,” said Herbert, praising Tsunoda’s assertiveness and racing mindset.

Tsunoda’s candid nature and strong-headed approach were qualities Herbert believed were essential to challenge the dominance of Max Verstappen within the team.


Lawson’s Rapid Rise Sparks Debate

Liam Lawson’s promotion has drawn skepticism due to his limited Formula 1 experience—just 11 Grand Prix starts. While the young Kiwi showed flashes of potential, including impressive results as a substitute driver, critics argue he lacks the proven track record Tsunoda has established over multiple seasons.

Herbert was particularly critical of Red Bull’s choice, asserting that Tsunoda’s qualifying prowess and mental resilience made him the more deserving candidate.

“I like his qualifying, where he has the edge is his strong head. He is not scared to say things either about his team or the other drivers around him. You need that type of mentality to go up against the best,” Herbert said.


Can Tsunoda Still Make His Case?

Tsunoda now faces the challenge of proving Red Bull wrong while driving for AlphaTauri in 2025. Herbert, while uncertain if Tsunoda could outright beat Verstappen, believed the Japanese driver’s competitive spirit and close performances would push the Dutchman—something Red Bull needs to maintain their dominance.

“Would he beat Max? I am not sure but I think it would be close. That is what Red Bull needs,” Herbert concluded.


Red Bull’s Gamble with Lawson

As the 2025 season approaches, the spotlight will shine brightly on Liam Lawson. Red Bull’s decision to bypass Tsunoda has added immense pressure on Lawson to deliver results immediately, especially in the shadow of Verstappen’s unparalleled dominance.

For Tsunoda, the path forward is clear: continue delivering strong performances with AlphaTauri and remain ready to seize an opportunity should Lawson falter. If the Kiwi struggles, the door for Tsunoda’s rise may yet reopen, and as Herbert put it, Red Bull may need to reconsider their priorities to “return to their winning ways.”

The upcoming season promises high stakes and intense scrutiny, not just for Lawson and Verstappen, but for the future trajectory of Yuki Tsunoda’s F1 career.

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