Jos Verstappen responds to Liam Lawson’s Red Bull exit: "Deserves to be in F1"

Max Verstappen's father, Jos Verstappen, has responded to Liam Lawson's exit from Red Bull Racing. 

The Milton Keynes outfit has taken a U-turn on its decision to promote Lawson to drive alongside Verstappen instead of Yuki Tsunoda, who has spent four full seasons with the sister team. After just two race weekends of his rookie season with the team, Lawson is now moving to Racing Bulls, and Tsunoda will take his place from the Japanese Grand Prix onwards.

The father of the four-time champion responded to a post from Racing Bulls, welcoming the New Zealander to the team. Verstappen wrote: “I really hope you go do a fantastic job. He deserves to be in F1.”

Red Bull team chief Christian Horner described it as a "sporting decision" as the team continues its fight to defend the drivers' championship and to reclaim the constructors' title. He explained:

“It has been difficult to see Liam struggle with the RB21 at the first two races and, as a result, we have collectively taken the decision to make an early switch.

“We came into the 2025 season with two ambitions, to retain the World Drivers' Championship and to reclaim the World Constructors' title and this is a purely sporting decision.

"We acknowledge there is a lot of work to be done with the RB21 and Yuki's experience will prove highly beneficial in helping to develop the current car. We welcome him to the team and are looking forward to seeing him behind the wheel of the RB21.

Liam Lawson, Red Bull Racing

Photo by: Zak Mauger / Motorsport Images

"We have a duty of care to protect and develop Liam and together, we see that after such a difficult start, it makes sense to act quickly so Liam can gain experience, as he continues his F1 career with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, an environment and a team he knows very well.”

The Japanese Grand Prix will take place from 4-6 April at the famous Suzuka Circuit.