Red Bull is set to confirm a major driver change ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix, with Liam Lawson being replaced by Yuki Tsunoda. This move is expected to be heavily backed by Honda, Red Bull’s engine partner, which has played a key role in Tsunoda’s career. With Honda’s support and Tsunoda’s growing experience, this decision could have significant implications for Red Bull’s future driver lineup.

Red Bull’s Decision to Replace Lawson with Tsunoda

Liam Lawson’s early struggles in the 2024 Formula 1 season have prompted Red Bull to rethink its lineup. Lawson, who was allowed to race alongside Max Verstappen, has faced difficulties in qualifying and race performance, leading to doubts within the Red Bull camp. Reports suggest that a meeting in Dubai among senior Red Bull figures resulted in the decision to replace Lawson with Tsunoda, a driver who has consistently shown improvement.

Honda’s Influence on Tsunoda’s Promotion

Honda has been a strong supporter of Yuki Tsunoda since he entered into Formula 1, funding his seat at Red Bull’s second team. With Honda still being Red Bull’s engine supplier until the end of the year and owning the Suzuka circuit, promoting Tsunoda at the Japanese Grand Prix seems like a strategic move. A Japanese driver competing in a Red Bull car at Suzuka will not only boost Honda’s brand presence but also increase fan engagement in Japan.

The Significance of the Japanese Grand Prix for Tsunoda

For Tsunoda, making his Red Bull debut at the Japanese Grand Prix is a dream come true. Having already driven for AlphaTauri at Suzuka in 2023 and competed in the Super Formula championship, he is well-acquainted with the track. Additionally, Red Bull has planned a show run in Tokyo before the race, making this transition even more meaningful for both Tsunoda and Japanese fans.

Red Bull’s Internal Discussions and the Dubai Meeting

Speculation about Lawson’s replacement gained traction after the Chinese Grand Prix, where his poor performance raised concerns among Red Bull executives. Reports from Dutch publication De Telegraaf indicate that a key meeting in Dubai sealed the decision. With Thai majority shareholder Chalerm Yoovidhya involved, the move signifies Red Bull’s willingness to take decisive action when a driver underperforms.

Liam Lawson’s Struggles and the Consequences

Lawson’s brief stint with Red Bull has been challenging. He struggled in qualifying, finishing last in both China’s sprint and main Grand Prix sessions. Additionally, his crash in Australia and the subsequent performance inconsistencies led to Red Bull breaking parc fermé regulations to make car changes, further highlighting the team’s lack of confidence in him. His demotion to Red Bull’s second team is expected to be seamless, but it will be a tough setback for the young driver.

What This Means for Red Bull and Honda’s Future

While Honda will switch its engine partnership to Aston Martin in 2026, its continued involvement with Red Bull through Tsunoda suggests that the company remains committed to fostering Japanese talent in Formula 1. If Tsunoda performs well, he could solidify his place as a long-term Red Bull driver, potentially challenging Sergio Perez’s position in the coming seasons.

For Lawson, this demotion serves as a wake-up call. If he wishes to make a comeback, he will need to prove himself at Red Bull’s second team and regain the confidence of team bosses.