Red Bull could swap Lawson and Tsunoda ahead of Japanese Grand Prix
Rumors
Liam Lawson’s form did not improve in China as the New Zealander had yet another underwhelming session during the race on Sunday. Red Bull may be quick to pull the trigger on a swap with Racing Bulls driver, Yuki Tsunoda for as early as the next race.
According to Austosport.com, the Red Bull leadership having seen no progress shown from Lawson, is currently evaluating swapping drivers, promoting Tsunoda up to Red Bull as Max Verstappen’s teammate, and demoting Lawson to the sister team, Racing Bulls, after only two race weekends.
Although nothing has been decided yet, the outlet does cite paddock sources have stated conversations have begun and the idea’s fruition is thought to be a likely one.
Lawson and Tsunoda on opposite worlds at the moment
Speaking to Sky Sports on his current issues, Lawson summed them up: "It's just time. Unfortunately, I don't really have time." According to Autosport, when Red Bull’s chief advisor was confronted with the New Zealander’s statements, the Austrian replied: "He is right."
Marko, the man who oversees Red Bull’s driving talents and distributes all four seats across both F1 teams, has now changed his tone regarding Tsunoda, and speaks highly of the Japanese driver: "Yuki is a different Yuki from the years before. He is in the form of his life. Obviously he changed his management. He has a different approach. He's more mature. It took a while, but now it looks like it's working."
It is widely known that Tsunoda has been pushing for a Red Bull promotion for quite some time now. When asked in the Shanghai International Circuit’s paddock if he would look kindly on a step-up to the Austrian team in Suzuka, his response was concise: "Japan? Yeah, 100%. I mean, the [Red Bull] car is faster."