Yuki Tsunoda will race for Red Bull starting at his home Grand Prix in Japan on April 6.
He replaces Liam Lawson, who has struggled in the first two races of the 2025 Formula One season. Lawson will now drive for Red Bull’s sister team, Racing Bulls, based in Italy.
Red Bull made the change to help the team stay strong in the championship race. Team boss Christian Horner said the move was about improving performance and using Tsunoda’s experience to develop their current car, the RB21.
Tsunoda, 24, began the season well and has worked hard to move past early criticism about being too emotional during races. This will be his first chance to race for the top team at a Grand Prix held in his own country.
Tsunoda has been supported by Honda, Red Bull’s engine partner, throughout his racing career. Honda also owns the Suzuka circuit, where the Japanese Grand Prix takes place.
Liam Lawson was chosen over Tsunoda at the end of 2024 to join Red Bull, but has not scored any points while racing next to world champion Max Verstappen. Red Bull said they still support Lawson and want him to gain more experience with Racing Bulls.
Other young drivers, like Alex Albon and Pierre Gasly, also struggled at Red Bull but later found success with different teams. Lawson will now race alongside French rookie Isack Hadjar, and hopes to grow with the new team.
