Red Bull has confirmed the immediate demotion of Liam Lawson, replacing him with Yuki Tsunoda. Lawson had only completed two races for Red Bull, and the decision comes three months after Tsunoda was initially passed over for Lawson in place of Sergio Perez.

Tsunoda, 24, will team up with Max Verstappen at the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix (April 4-6), while Lawson will return to Red Bull’s second team, Racing Bulls, alongside rookie Isack Hadjar.

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner explained, “It has been difficult to see Liam struggle with the RB21 at the first two races, and as a result, we have collectively decided on an early switch.”

Currently third in the constructors’ championship, Red Bull faces strong competition from McLaren and Mercedes. Verstappen has raised concerns that their car might only be the fourth fastest on the grid. Despite finishing second in the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, Verstappen struggled in the Chinese race, finishing fourth.

Lawson had a tough start to the season, qualifying 18th in Melbourne, crashing out of the race, and finishing 14th and 12th in China. His Shanghai result was slightly improved due to disqualifications of other drivers, though he would have placed 15th without them.

Horner added, “We acknowledge the RB21 needs work, and Yuki’s experience will be valuable in helping develop the car.”

The decision to replace Lawson with Tsunoda was made during a meeting of Red Bull’s top management in Dubai. Initially, Red Bull chose Lawson over Tsunoda for his perceived potential and mental toughness, despite Lawson’s limited experience in F1.

The car’s lack of competitiveness continues to be a concern, as Verstappen continues to report balance issues affecting its performance.

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