A huge bombshell concerning Liam Lawson's Red Bull future has been dropped on the back of the Chinese Grand Prix.
Last weekend in Australia, Lawson's Red Bull debut ended in disarray as he crashed out on lap 47.
Heading into this weekend's Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai, the pressure was firmly on Lawson to deliver a better performance as his future has already been called into question.
However, the 23-year-old endured another tough weekend after qualifying stone dead last and eventually started the race from the pit lane.
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Despite starting at the back of the pack, Lawson was expected to move his way up the field during the 56-lap event due to the superior pace compared to the cars around him.
However, the New Zealander only managed to finish in a disappointing 15th place.
Meanwhile, Red Bull teammate Max Verstappen managed to come home in fourth place.
Liam Lawson bombshell drops after the Chinese Grand Prix
Minutes after the Chinese Grand Prix ended, it has been claimed that Lawson could be replaced as soon as the next race, which will be the Japanese Grand Prix in two weeks' time.
As reported by Motorsport, Lawson could be replaced by current Racing Bulls driver Yuki Tsunoda as early as the Japanese Grand Prix.
The report stated: "Amid a difficult start to the season for Lawson, Red Bull is already considering changing its driver line-up ahead of Suzuka, with Tsunoda named by paddock sources as a potential replacement."
It has been suggested that no final decision has been made but discussions have reportedly begun.
Speaking prior to the weekend, Red Bull team boss Christian Horner said: "We’re only at race two. It’s a circuit he’s never seen before. So I think we have to be fair and give him time. And he will he will get there.
"But we just need to give him the back and give him time. And, you know, he’s in a highly pressured seat. And it doesn’t get any easier."
Topics: Red Bull Racing, Formula 1
Marcus Chan