Sources have confirmed that Yuki Tsunoda is set to replace Liam Lawson at Red Bull for the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix.
This unexpected driver swap, occurring only two races into Lawson`s tenure with the team, is expected to be officially announced later this week, pending final arrangements.
Tsunoda will become Max Verstappen`s third teammate in the span of just four races, as Lawson himself had recently replaced Sergio Perez.
Lawson will be reassigned to Racing Bulls, Red Bull`s junior team.
This move will allow Tsunoda, who has received significant backing from Honda, Red Bull`s former engine partner, to make his debut for the team at his home race, the Japanese Grand Prix, creating a compelling narrative.
Red Bull is known for making tough decisions regarding drivers, but this one is considered their most radical yet.
Sources indicate that Lawson`s poor performance triggered this swift change. Lawson`s struggles include an 18th place qualifying in Australia followed by a race-ending crash in the rain (while Verstappen achieved a podium finish), and last-place qualifications for both the sprint and grand prix in China, where he finished outside the points in both races.
The decision was formalized at a meeting earlier this week, although sources revealed that Lawson was already anticipating this outcome when he departed the Shanghai International Circuit last Sunday.
Christian Horner, Red Bull`s team principal, who was initially hesitant about promoting Tsunoda, has been impressed by the Japanese driver`s strong early-season performance.
Tsunoda has shown good pace in both races but missed out on points due to strategic errors by Racing Bulls.
Many in Formula 1 believe Tsunoda, who has been part of Red Bull`s junior program since 2021, should have been chosen over Lawson for the seat this season.
Lawson is officially classified as a rookie this season, with only 11 race starts prior to 2025.
He will team up with another rookie, Isack Hadjar, at Racing Bulls.
