The Verstappens question Red Bull’s strategy as Liam Lawson is set to lose his seat to Yuki Tsunoda, despite car limitations.
Max Verstappen isn’t pleased with Red Bull Racing’s latest driver shake-up. According to reports, the team plans to replace Liam Lawson with Yuki Tsunoda starting from the Japanese Grand Prix—a move that hasn’t yet been officially confirmed, but has already sparked strong reactions from the Verstappen camp.
Verstappens Oppose Red Bull’s Decision
Dutch media claim the decision is nearly finalized, but Max and his father Jos Verstappen have voiced their disagreement directly to Red Bull. For them, sidelining Lawson goes against the values of talent development and seems too hasty, especially considering the challenges facing the current car, the RB21.
The Verstappens argue that Yuki Tsunoda, despite his growth and recognition within the team—even Christian Horner has praised him recently—might struggle just as much. The issue? The RB21 is a car that only seems to suit Max’s very specific driving style: a car with a planted front end and a loose, agile rear. Tsunoda, they say, simply doesn’t drive like Max.
This decision, they fear, could be more of a desperate attempt to salvage points in the Constructors’ Championship than a long-term solution. Unless the RB21 sees some key development updates to make it more balanced and adaptable, the Verstappens believe no one but Max will be able to extract its true potential.
Schumacher: Newey’s Impact Unmatched
Adding to the broader conversation, former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher—who shares a close relationship with Red Bull’s legendary designer Adrian Newey—has weighed in on the team’s recent struggles.
“Red Bull says no single man makes the difference,” Ralf said. “I disagree. If you know Adrian Newey, you know how much impact one person can have when the environment is right.”
“Adrian isn’t just a brilliant engineer—he’s also a leader who brings his team together. He creates a space where everyone can thrive, and at the same time, he’s a devoted family man. That balance, that ability to inspire—it’s rare.”
According to Ralf, what sets Newey apart is his instinct for building cars that allow drivers to push the limits with confidence. “Sometimes that means sacrificing a bit of raw performance for drivability. But that’s what defines the connection between man and machine.”
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Lawson Out, Tsunoda In: Max Hits Back at Red Bull Lawson Out, Tsunoda In: Max Hits Back at Red Bull
