In a surprising twist, Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko recently unveiled why Yuki Tsunoda‘s inconsistency prevented him from securing a Red Bull seat alongside Max Verstappen in 2025. Speaking candidly, Marko emphasized Tsunoda’s lack of stability as a major factor in the decision to select Liam Lawson instead.
The decision came after Red Bull parted ways with Sergio Perez at the close of 2024, leading to considerable speculation within the Formula 1 community about who would claim the coveted second Red Bull seat. Despite the allure of the position, it’s infamous for its unique challenges, as the second Red Bull is notoriously ‘tough’ to drive.
Ultimately, Red Bull chose the less experienced Liam Lawson to partner with the reigning four-time world champion for the 2025 season. This unexpected choice startled many, especially since Tsunoda, a seasoned driver, was passed over for the newcomer Lawson.
As rumors swirled, Red Bull had their rationale. Marko, speaking to Kleine Zeitung, hinted at internal deliberations that influenced their choice. Despite initial confidence, Red Bull reversed their decision after just two races due to Lawson’s poor performance. As a result, Yuki Tsunoda was given the sought-after spot alongside Verstappen.
Helmut Marko further revealed that Adrian Newey, a significant figure in Red Bull’s strategy, had a role in initially blocking Tsunoda’s move. Marko shared a story illustrating an incident that particularly frustrated Newey. However, changes took hold when Newey departed for Aston Martin last year. With Newey out of the equation, Red Bull promptly inserted Tsunoda next to Verstappen, marking him as the Dutchman’s third teammate within four races.
This sequence of events underscores the unpredictable nature of Formula 1, where strategic decisions hinge on both performance and internal dynamics. For Yuki Tsunoda, this opportunity signifies a pivotal moment, promising both challenges and prospects as he joins the Red Bull team. The road ahead will reveal if this is a defining chapter in his racing career.
