​In a dramatic turn of events, Red Bull Racing has announced that Liam Lawson will be replaced by Yuki Tsunoda for the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix. This decision comes after Lawson’s challenging performances in the initial races of the season, including a crash in Australia and a 16th-place finish in China. ​

Lawson, visibly emotional during a press conference, expressed his feelings about the team’s decision. “I feel like everyone is against me,” he stated, tears welling up. “I’ve given my all to this team, and it’s heartbreaking to step aside.”​

The move to introduce Tsunoda, a Japanese driver backed by Honda, is strategically timed ahead of the Suzuka race, aligning with Red Bull’s interests in the region. Tsunoda’s familiarity with the circuit and his experience in Formula 1 make him a suitable candidate for this transition. ​

Max Verstappen, Lawson’s teammate, has expressed dissatisfaction with the decision, highlighting the challenges Lawson faced with the RB21 car and suggesting that the vehicle’s handling contributed to his struggles. ​

As Red Bull Racing prepares for the Japanese Grand Prix, the focus will be on how Tsunoda adapts to his new role and whether this strategic move will yield the desired results for the team. Meanwhile, Lawson’s future in Formula 1 remains uncertain as he navigates this setback in his burgeoning career.