Christian Horner, Red Bull`s team principal, has fueled rumors about Liam Lawson potentially losing his seat after just two races. He did not confirm that the New Zealander would continue driving for the team at the upcoming Formula 1 race in Japan.
Lawson has had a challenging start with Red Bull, struggling in qualifying sessions and lacking race pace compared to his teammate Max Verstappen.
Red Bull promoted Lawson from their junior team, Racing Bulls, after a brief period in F1, choosing him over the more experienced Yuki Tsunoda, his former teammate.
Following the Chinese Grand Prix, reports emerged suggesting Red Bull might replace Lawson with Tsunoda as early as the Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka.
When questioned about these reports, Horner did not deny them, stating that the team would review the data and information gathered from the race.
Horner mentioned, “There`s always speculation in Formula 1. We`ve just finished the race, and we will analyze the information and assess the situation.”
Regarding claims by Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko about a meeting to discuss Lawson`s position, Horner stated that “nothing specific” had been scheduled yet.
After Lawson`s difficult qualifying, where he struggled with tire performance, Red Bull adjusted his car setup, leading to a pit-lane start.
Horner commented, “Liam has had a tough couple of races and a difficult weekend. We changed his car setup significantly to gather data over the race distance and support him.”
He added, “Liam`s confidence with the car is currently low, which prompted us to make substantial changes to find a setup that could boost his confidence.”
“I feel sorry for Lawson”
While carefully choosing his words, Horner`s remarks indicated concern about Lawson`s performance and the pressure he is facing.
Horner said, “Liam still has potential, but we aren`t seeing it currently. He`s had some tough weekends, and the media attention adds pressure.”
“This business is naturally demanding, and I feel for him. It`s clearly challenging for him right now.”
“He`s young, and we have a responsibility to support him, which we will do to the best of our ability.”
“Liam remains a capable driver. We know this, but for some reason, he`s not performing to that level at the moment.”
Despite the races being at tracks Lawson was new to, Horner dismissed this as a primary reason for his struggles.
He said, “These drivers adapt quickly. We will continue to evaluate the situation and analyze the data we have collected.”
Tsunoda potentially in line for Red Bull seat?
Tsunoda has previously expressed disappointment at not being promoted to Red Bull but has been performing strongly this season.
Despite some unfortunate events costing him points, Tsunoda has qualified well and achieved a notable sixth place in the Shanghai Sprint.
About Tsunoda`s performance, Horner said, “Yuki is now an experienced driver doing an excellent job. He was unlucky with strategy and a front-wing issue in the race. He also performed well last weekend.”
Last year, Tsunoda tested Verstappen`s championship-winning car, but Red Bull was expected to replace Sergio Perez with Lawson at that time.
Horner was asked if Tsunoda`s test performance was more indicative of his potential with Red Bull compared to Lawson`s current form.
He responded, “We consider all information and data. Yuki`s test was positive and provides useful data, but we must consider the overall picture.”
The Formula 1 season continues with the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka Circuit from April 4-6.
