Formula 1 driver Liam Lawson will return to Red Bull’s junior team, Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, from the 2025 Japan Grand Prix, Oracle Red Bull Racing has confirmed.
The announcement follows earlier reports from Dutch media suggesting the move was imminent.
Lawson, who joined Red Bull Racing at the start of the 2025 season, has faced significant challenges, qualifying near the back of the grid and finding it difficult to move up through the field during races.
In a statement released tonight, New Zealand time, Team Principal and CEO Christian Horner explained the decision as a ‘strategic move’ aimed at securing both the World Drivers’ Championship and the World Constructors’ title.
“It has been difficult to see Liam struggle with the RB21 at the first two races, and as a result, we have collectively taken the decision to make an early switch,” said Horner.
Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda will step up from Visa Cash App Racing Bulls to partner reigning and four-time World Champion Max Verstappen. Horner highlighted Tsunoda’s experience as crucial for the ongoing development of the challenging RB21.
“We acknowledge there is a lot of work to be done with the RB21, and Yuki’s experience will prove highly beneficial in helping to develop the current car,” Horner added. “We welcome him to the team and are looking forward to seeing him behind the wheel.”
Red Bull says it remains committed to Lawson, emphasising the move is intended to support his ongoing growth in Formula 1.
“We have a duty of care to protect and develop Liam,” Horner stated. “After such a difficult start, it makes sense to act quickly so Liam can gain experience, as he continues his F1 career with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, an environment and a team he knows very well.”
Tsunoda is taking on a challenging situation with the move, with many close to the sport suggesting it is the car, and not necessarily Lawson, that is the issue.
While Red Bull claims it wants a long term relationship with Lawson, the Japanese driver is out of contract at the end of this year. If Tsunoda does not achieve better results than Lawson, he could lose his seat with the Austrian-owned teams.
Laurent Mekies, Team Principal of Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, said: Everyone here at VCARB is looking forward to working hard with Liam to give him the best environment possible for him to shine in our car and to express the talent we all know he has. He fit in so well last year, and we cannot wait to challenge ourselves and grow as a team.
“With Isack having started so strongly with us already, we know we have a young and strong lineup.”
