Lawson's Red Bull future in doubt as team eyes Tsunoda swap for Japan

Yuki Tsunoda is in line for a call up to Red Bull’s Formula 1 team for next week’s Japanese Grand Prix - just as Autosport exclusively reported last Sunday.

Liam Lawson has come under pressure after making a difficult start to the season, crashing out of the Australian GP and was a lowly 15th place in China - upgraded to 12th after a series of disqualifications.

The New Zealander has struggled to adjust to the RB21, which has been prone to unpredictable handling and lacking in grip, which is not inspiring confidence.

His team-mate, however, four-time world champion Max Verstappen has fared better, but has still conceded he faces a mammoth task in retaining the title this season driving the RB21.

Autosport understands that discussions are taking place that would see Lawson swap places with Tsunoda, although the move is complicated.

Tsunoda, 24, is backed financially by Red Bull’s engine suppliers Honda after graduating from the Japanese company’s racing school in 2016. His promotion to the Red Bull main team would be a huge boost to Honda, especially coming in the company’s home race at Suzuka next week and could trigger some financial ramifications.

Yuki Tsunoda, RB F1 Team

Photo by: Sam Bloxham / Motorsport Images

Red Bull boss Christian Horner, who has vowed to stand by Lawson, also admitted the Kiwi would find it “easier” to get up to speed with Red Bull’s sister team, Racing Bulls.

By swapping with the more-experienced Tsunoda, Lawson, who has only competed in 13 races, would be afforded time to get up to speed with F1.

It also means that Tsunoda, who is now in his fifth season in F1, would be offered his chance to impress in a leading team after biding his time with Red Bull’s sister outfit. 

The move will raise eyebrows after Red Bull replaced Sergio Perez at the end of last season, despite the Mexican still having a contract with Red Bull for this season.

Perez’s contract was cancelled in favour of promoting Lawson however, his below-par performances - combined with a solid showing from Tsunoda - has been difficult to ignore.

Confirmation is not expected to come until the end of the week.