Yuki Tsunoda has revealed a calm and measured reaction to Red Bull’s decision to promote Liam Lawson over him for the vacant seat alongside Max Verstappen in 2025. While the news undoubtedly raised eyebrows, Tsunoda has made it clear that he was not blindsided by the move and has already come to terms with the decision.
The Japanese driver enjoyed a standout 2024 season, finishing with nine points finishes and playing a key role in securing Racing Bulls (formerly VCARB) an eighth-place finish in the Constructors’ Championship. This solid performance earned Tsunoda his first test with Red Bull’s senior team in Abu Dhabi, where he drove the championship-winning RB20. Despite this opportunity, Red Bull opted for Lawson as the replacement for Sergio Perez, who vacated his seat in December.
While Lawson’s promotion came after just 11 F1 starts across 2023/24, Tsunoda is preparing for his fifth full season with Racing Bulls, fully aware of the challenges ahead. However, he has taken a mature stance on the matter, acknowledging that Red Bull’s decision makes sense and that he harbors no ill will toward his teammate-turned-rival.
“I understand why they chose Liam. It is what it is. These are things I can’t control and I respect that,” Tsunoda admitted. “I didn’t feel super angry or disappointed when they made the announcement. Maybe I was prepared inside my head for it, but in the end, whatever happens, happens.”
For Tsunoda, the job remains the same, whether he’s racing for Red Bull or Racing Bulls. His focus is squarely on proving himself and continuing to develop his skill set in Formula 1, especially now in a leadership role within the team.
“Whether I go to Red Bull or Racing Bulls, the things I have to do are the same. In both teams, there are exciting projects. Even if I go to Red Bull and become teammates with Max, it would be a challenge, but a great one,” Tsunoda said. “With Racing Bulls, I’m in a new position as a team leader, and that’s a role I’ve never really experienced before. I have to develop myself further in that regard.”
Tsunoda’s calm approach comes despite the uncertainty surrounding his future within the Red Bull family. Last year, team principal Christian Horner suggested that Tsunoda’s long-term prospects could be in jeopardy if he didn’t secure a seat with the senior team in 2025.
“We’re aware that if we can’t offer Yuki an opportunity, especially this year, it might be time to look elsewhere,” Horner remarked. “You can’t keep a driver in the support team for five years. You either give them a chance or let them go.”
With his back against the wall and Racing Bulls’ leadership role in his hands, Tsunoda has one clear goal in mind: proving that he belongs in Formula 1, no matter where the future takes him.