Red Bull advisor, Helmut Marko, has opened up about the recent decision to switch drivers, a move that saw Yuki Tsunoda join Red Bull Racing while Liam Lawson returned to Racing Bulls. This decision was not made lightly but was influenced by performance clauses that could potentially allow Max Verstappen to leave the team if certain conditions aren’t met.
This marks the earliest driver change within a season for Red Bull, reflecting how important it is for the team to clinch the drivers’ championship, particularly with Verstappen. Marko readily admitted that without achieving the desired results, they risk losing their star driver.
“We’re really driven to secure this fifth title,” Marko shared with the BBC. He emphasized the importance of providing Verstappen with a winning car, saying, “All top drivers have performance clauses, so we need to ensure Max feels competitive.” He mentioned a productive meeting held last Thursday involving Max and the engineers, focusing on enhancing the car’s versatility and performance.
Despite being only two races into the season and trailing Lando Norris by eight points, the team is fully committed to securing this championship—a goal they missed with Sebastian Vettel but feel they have a shot at now. During the China race, for example, Max’s lap times on hard tires were competitive, even though the McLaren often seems faster.
Verstappen, supportive of Lawson, initially opposed the early-season switch, attributing Liam’s struggles to the challenging RB21. However, Marko noted that Tsunoda’s confidence and experience made him a better fit for the team at this time.
“The RB21 isn’t the fastest, but it’s tough to drive,” Marko explained. While Max manages it, Liam found it challenging at this stage. Tsunoda, on the other hand, has shown significant growth. In his fifth year, he’s matured, changed his management, and races with more assurance—factors crucial in handling a difficult car.
Tsunoda delivered commendable performances in Australia and China, although strategy setbacks at Racing Bulls hindered results. However, with experience comes the ability to manage a tricky car better.
“In terms of strategy, having two strong drivers is beneficial,” Marko continued. “It makes it easier to develop a strategy beneficial to the number-one driver if both are finishing in the top five or eight.”
Despite the swift decision to replace Lawson, Marko confirmed that Tsunoda will continue with the team alongside Verstappen for the remainder of the season, demonstrating confidence in his capabilities.
