In a revealing twist to the unfolding drama of the 2025 Formula 1 season, Liam Lawson has opened up about the unexpected challenges of driving a Red Bull car, describing it as “more different than I think people would expect” compared to the Racing Bulls (VCARB) machinery he’s accustomed to. The New Zealander’s candid remarks, made ahead of the season on the Beyond the Grid podcast, come at a critical juncture as his position within Red Bull hangs in the balance after just two races. Reports from PlanetF1.com suggest that Yuki Tsunoda is poised to replace him ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix, with an official announcement expected later this week, intensifying scrutiny on Lawson’s rocky start to the year.
Lawson’s tenure at Red Bull began with high hopes, stepping in to partner reigning champion Max Verstappen following Sergio Perez’s departure. Yet, his performances in the opening rounds have fallen short of expectations. In Shanghai, he qualified a dismal P20 for both the Sprint and Grand Prix, failing to score points and trailing far behind Verstappen’s pace. This has fueled speculation about his imminent demotion, with Red Bull reportedly considering Tsunoda—a seasoned driver from their sister team—as a replacement. The pressure is mounting, and Lawson’s own insights into the Red Bull car’s unique demands shed light on why he’s struggled to adapt.
Speaking on the podcast, Lawson elaborated on the differences between the RB21 and the VCARB cars he drove previously, emphasizing that “little things make a massive difference” in how the two handle. “It’s definitely not the same,” he said, noting that while the RB21 is an evolution of its predecessors, it’s a distinct beast. Red Bull has worked to make the car faster and easier to drive, and Lawson acknowledged that it “does feel better” than past iterations he tested. However, he underscored that the transition from VCARB to Red Bull is far from seamless, hinting at a steeper learning curve than anticipated. The car’s handling, he suggested, requires a nuanced approach that he’s still grappling with—a challenge compounded by his debut on unfamiliar tracks like Australia and China.
Max Verstappen, ever the dominant force, weighed in with a provocative theory: Lawson might actually be faster in a VCARB car than he is in the Red Bull. The champion’s comment, delivered with his trademark bluntness, implies that the RB21’s complexity could be stifling Lawson’s natural speed, a notion that aligns with the rookie’s own observations. For a driver accustomed to the sister team’s setup, the Red Bull’s sharper dynamics and heightened performance ceiling demand rapid adjustment—something Lawson hasn’t yet mastered. This perspective has sparked debate among fans, with some arguing he’s been thrown into the deep end without adequate support, while others see his struggles as proof he’s not ready for the top tier.
The looming decision on Lawson’s future has sent ripples through the F1 community. Tsunoda, a consistent performer at VCARB, is reportedly Red Bull’s favored choice to step in, bringing experience and familiarity to a team chasing both championship titles. Lawson’s potential exit after just two races would mark a harsh end to what was billed as a breakout opportunity, raising questions about Red Bull’s patience with young talent. His comments about the car’s differences offer a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes challenges, but they may not be enough to sway Helmut Marko and the team’s leadership, known for their unforgiving approach.
As the Japanese Grand Prix approaches, all eyes are on Red Bull’s next move. Lawson’s fate hangs in the balance, a stark reminder of the sport’s brutal demands. Whether his struggles stem from the car’s unique traits or his own adaptation, the clock is ticking. For now, his words linger as both an explanation and a plea—little things may indeed make a massive difference, but in F1, results speak louder than excuses. The announcement later this week will determine if Lawson gets more time to bridge the gap or if his Red Bull dream ends before it truly begins.
