Red Bull has officially announced that Yuki Tsunoda will replace Liam Lawson, solidifying the Japanese driver’s position within the team for the upcoming Formula 1 season. The decision marks a significant step in Tsunoda’s career as he takes on a more prominent role within the Red Bull Racing setup. Yuki Tsunoda has been part of the Red Bull and AlphaTauri (now Visa Cash App RB) family since his debut in 2021. Over the years, he has shown flashes of brilliance, combining raw speed with aggressive racing.

Despite some inconsistencies early in his career, Tsunoda has matured into a more well-rounded driver, earning the trust of Red Bull’s management. His performances in the 2023 and 2024 seasons, where he consistently outperformed teammates and delivered strong midfield results, played a key role in securing this promotion. Liam Lawson, the young New Zealander who impressed during his substitute appearances in 2023, was widely considered a strong contender for a full-time seat. However, with Red Bull prioritizing experience over potential, Tsunoda was chosen for the role. While Lawson remains a highly regarded prospect, Red Bull seems to believe that Tsunoda’s on-track experience and continued development make him the better choice at this moment.

Despite missing out on a permanent F1 seat, Lawson remains a reserve driver for Red Bull and Visa Cash App RB. His future in Formula 1 is still promising, and many believe he could make a return should an opportunity arise. With Tsunoda stepping into Lawson’s expected role, Red Bull is reinforcing its commitment to nurturing young talent from its driver academy. The decision also aligns with Honda’s growing partnership with Red Bull, as Tsunoda is a Honda-backed driver. This move strengthens ties between the team and the Japanese manufacturer ahead of their future collaborations.

One key factor in Tsunoda’s promotion is Red Bull’s long-standing partnership with Honda. The Japanese manufacturer, which supplies power units to Red Bull and its junior team, has strongly backed Tsunoda’s development. With Honda set to leave Red Bull in 2026 to partner with Aston Martin, this decision could be seen as a final gesture of appreciation for their support of Tsunoda’s F1 journey. His promotion may also strengthen Red Bull’s ties with Japanese sponsors and fanbase, ensuring broader market appeal.