Liam Lawson releases statement on being demoted by Red Bull after just two races

Liam Lawson has released a statement on social media after Red Bull confirmed he has been demoted to Racing Bulls and replaced by Yuki Tsunoda.

Lawson, 23, endured a poor start at Red Bull, having replaced Sergio Perez ahead of the 2025 F1 campaign.

The New Zealander crashed out of the season’s opening race in Melbourne, Australia before finishing 12^th in the Chinese Grand Prix, which took place in Shanghai, last weekend.

As a result, his future at Red Bull was a subject of media interest with then-Racing Bulls driver Tsunoda, 24, rumoured to be the favourite to replace him. And this proved to be the case with the manufacturer posting a statement to confirm the news on Thursday.

"It has been difficult to see Liam struggle with the RB21 at the first two races and as a result, we have collectively taken the decision to make an early switch,” said team principal Christian Horner in a statement released on Red Bull’s website.

“We came into the 2025 season, with two ambitions, to retain the World Drivers' Championship and to reclaim the World Constructors' title and this is a purely sporting decision.

“We acknowledge there is a lot of work to be done with the RB21 and Yuki’s experience will prove highly beneficial in helping to develop the current car. We welcome him to the Team and are looking forward to seeing him behind the wheel of the RB21.

“We have a duty of care to protect and develop Liam and together, we see that after such a difficult start, it makes sense to act quickly so Liam can gain experience, as he continues his F1 career with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, an environment and a Team he knows very well."

Now, the 23-year-old has posted a statement of his own to Instagram, which reads: “Being a @redbullracing driver has been my dream since I was a kid, it’s what I’ve worked towards my whole life. It’s tough, but I'm grateful for everything that’s brought me to this point. To every one of you who’s stood by me, thank you for all the support it means the world.

“Thank you @visacashapprb for the warm welcome, I’m excited and ready to go to work at one of my favourite places 🇯🇵”

Race three of the F1 season will take place at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan on April 6.