Max Verstappen is unhappy with Red Bull’s decision to drop Liam Lawson, as Helmut Marko confirms the reigning champion’s frustration.
Since the official announcement was made, that Yuki Tsunoda will replace Liam Lawson, speculation has circled on Verstappen’s reaction to the news. This intensified after the 4-time World Champion liked a social media post criticising his team for the “harsh” move. However, Dr. Helmut Marko has confirmed that the Dutch driver is indeed not pleased with the team’s choice to drop his Kiwi teammate, Liam Lawson.
Just two rounds into 2025, Lawson was evidently struggling. Failing to score points and being eliminated in Q1 over both race weekends prompted Red Bull to take action immediately. Despite his teammate’s struggles, Verstappen publicly supported Lawson, particularly in China. In which Verstappen described the RB21 as “too slow” and difficult to drive.
Verstappen made his disapproval known immediately, by liking an Instagram post by former F1 driver Giedo van der Garde, who described Lawson’s removal as a reactionary and unfair decision, bordering on “bullying or a panic move.”
Marko has since confirmed Max’s feelings toward the move, whilst defending the decision.
Team performance comes first according to Marko
According to Helmut Marko, this swap is purely to benefit Red Bull Racing and reassert its dominance. Helping Max to retain his championship title for a fifth year straight, and hoping to bring Red Bull back to the top of the constructors standings.
“We know Max is not happy,” Marko admitted in an interview with De Telegraaf. “But we need both cars performing at the front. This is not just about the Constructors’ Championship. It’s also about helping Max secure his fifth World title. A strong teammate allows for better strategic options in races.”
Marko believes that Tsunoda’s experience and recent form has made him the suitable replacement at this point in the season.
“We can rely on Yuki’s knowledge and consistency now, and ultimately, that benefits the entire team. Including Max.”
Lawson’s bad luck
Lawson’s brief stint with the senior Red Bull team was disrupted by a series of unfortunate events. A lack of track time due to mechanical issues during Bahrain testing and disruptions in Australia’s practice sessions put him at an early disadvantage. As a result, Marko believes, the pressure mounted, leading to further mistakes and a dip in confidence.
“In China, things only got worse,” Marko explained. “The car is difficult to drive and not the fastest, which didn’t help Lawson’s case.”
Luckily for Lawson, this setback is not the end of the road for the Kiwi driver. He will return to the familiar environment at Racing Bulls, partnering fellow rookie Isack Hadjar. This familiar environment will hopefully ease Lawson back into Formula 1 well.
On the other hand, Tsunoda will be making his long-awaited Red Bull debut in front of his home crowd next weekend in Suzuka. The Japanese Driver will be eager to prove his talent and score a home podium for the fans.
