Lewis Hamilton expressed concern over the recent Yuki Tsunoda Red Bull demotion ahead of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, emphasizing the need for reform in Red Bull’s approach to driver management. In support of Tsunoda, Hamilton challenged the culture within the senior team that has resulted in frequent driver changes in less than a decade.
Red Bull’s Driver Lineup Undergoes Significant Changes
The Formula 1 paddock saw major shifts as Isack Hadjar was confirmed to partner Max Verstappen at Red Bull in the upcoming season, concluding months of speculation over the team’s available seat. Meanwhile, Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad are set to drive for Racing Bulls, with Yuki Tsunoda taking on a dual reserve role after a year marked by fluctuating performances. Tsunoda’s inconsistent results during the season left Red Bull considering other prospects, and Hadjar’s strong form solidified his promotion as the year drew to a close.
Hamilton Draws Attention to Red Bull’s Rapid Driver Turnover
Hamilton highlighted Red Bull’s longstanding pattern of quickly cycling through drivers in its senior team, referencing former drivers Daniil Kvyat, Daniel Ricciardo, Pierre Gasly, and Alexander Albon, all of whom were replaced within brief periods. Following Sergio Perez’s departure, the team rotated between Tsunoda and Lawson, underlining the pressure that incoming drivers often face in such an environment. Hamilton warned that this repetitive turnover creates challenges, particularly for young talents stepping into the team.
During Thursday’s media session at Yas Marina, Hamilton commented:
“We all know what happens when people go to Red Bull and the environment that you’re thrown into… looking from the outside it’s obviously quite difficult. And where he is (Racing Bulls), it seems like a really good environment… Yuki is an amazing driver. Every driver that goes there has this general experience, but it doesn’t mean those drivers aren’t great. It’s clearly something else. I just hope that there are changes made.”
— Lewis Hamilton, F1 Driver
This discussion comes as Hamilton transitions from a demanding inaugural year at Ferrari and focuses on preparations for the 2026 season.
Recognition for Isack Hadjar’s Rise in Formula 1
Hamilton was also questioned about greeting Isack Hadjar in the paddock earlier in the week. In response, Hamilton praised the young driver’s growth and adaptability:
“I’ve only found out about it today. I’m not going to lie, that it doesn’t worry me. I think he’s (Isack Hadjar) done an amazing job this year. And he’s still very, very young. He’s still learning a lot about himself and his surroundings, but he’s done a phenomenal job this year. He’s got a great approach.”
— Lewis Hamilton, F1 Driver
Hadjar’s season has been notable, having earned 51 points and achieving a breakthrough podium at Zandvoort. Comparatively, Liam Lawson sits on 38 points, and Yuki Tsunoda follows with 30, having found it tough to match Max Verstappen’s performance as Verstappen remains at the center of the title race with 396 points.
Hamilton and Ferrari Battle Through a Challenging Season
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix presents another challenge for Hamilton, who arrives facing the prospect of completing his first season without a podium finish. While Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc has achieved seven podiums and holds 230 points, Hamilton remains at 152, just ahead of Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli. The Yas Marina Circuit has been a place of repeated success for Hamilton, with five victories and as many podiums, but this year the performance gap between Ferrari and the front of the grid remains evident.
Implications for Future F1 Driver Development
Hamilton’s strong words and endorsement of both Yuki Tsunoda and Isack Hadjar place a spotlight on the effects of Red Bull’s internal culture on driver careers. The ongoing changes signal that both established champions and rising stars remain affected by team environments and management decisions. As the 2026 season nears, how teams handle growth and transitions could significantly influence new and current drivers such as Lawson, Hadjar, and Antonelli, shaping the future direction of Formula 1’s competitive landscape.
