Sources have informed ESPN that Red Bull is seriously contemplating replacing Liam Lawson with Yuki Tsunoda for the Japanese Grand Prix, after just two races for Lawson.
Lawson`s difficult start with Red Bull includes a DNF in Australia and a 12th place finish in China, which was initially 15th before disqualifications adjusted the final standings. He has also not progressed beyond Q1 in any qualifying sessions.
Red Bull chose Lawson to take Sergio Pérez`s seat this year after Pérez had been with the junior team Racing Bulls for 11 races across two seasons.
Tsunoda, who is about to start his fifth year with the secondary team, was initially passed over but now seems to have an opportunity to be promoted.
Rumors of a possible driver change intensified during the Chinese GP weekend after Lawson mentioned he lacked sufficient time, though he later clarified this statement after the race.
He explained that his comment about time referred to the ongoing season, stating that he doesn`t have the opportunity to test the car and adapt to it because they are already racing and losing points each race. He emphasized that he understands the need to perform and is focused on quickly getting comfortable with the car.
Lawson admitted that neither he nor the team is satisfied with the current situation.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner is expected to prioritize this potential driver swap this week upon the team`s return to the UK.
Sources suggest that a decision is anticipated early this week.
Horner did not deny the possibility of a change when questioned during media sessions in Shanghai after the race.
He stated that everything is speculative at the moment and that the team would review the information gathered from the race.
Horner acknowledged Lawson`s potential but noted that it is not currently being realized. He mentioned the pressure Lawson is under from the media and the inherent pressure of Formula 1, expressing sympathy for the difficult situation Lawson is facing.
When asked if he could alleviate some pressure by confirming Lawson`s place for the Japanese GP, Horner again declined to do so, reiterating that the team would assess the information post-race.
Reports have also linked Argentine driver Franco Colapinto with a move to Red Bull’s junior team, which could potentially lead to Lawson being dropped entirely. However, sources have indicated to ESPN that these reports are unlikely and Colapinto is still expected to replace Jack Doohan at Alpine before the European season leg.
Colapinto joined Alpine as a reserve driver this year, on loan from Williams.
Dominic Ashworth