"Yuki Tsunoda chosen by Red Bull over Liam Lawson after 2 races"

Yuki Tsunoda has been confirmed by Red Bull to replace Liam Lawson at the Japanese Grand Prix and for future races.

This decision was made after Lawson struggled during the Australian and Chinese Grand Prix races, prompting the team to promote Tsunoda from its Racing Bulls team to partner with four-time reigning world champion Max Verstappen.

According to Red Bull team principal and CEO Christian Horner, the switch was made in order to achieve their goals of retaining the World Drivers' Championship and reclaiming the World Constructors' title. Horner also stated that there is still work to be done with the RB21 car and Tsunoda's experience will be beneficial in its development.

Horner also mentioned their duty to protect and develop Lawson, who will continue his F1 career with Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, a team he is familiar with. Lawson was selected in December to replace Sergio Perez, who left the team after four years. Tsunoda and Isack Hadjar were also considered for the seat, but the team ultimately chose Lawson.

Lawson, who had 11 F1 starts before this season, has struggled to keep pace in the RB21 car, failing to make it out of Q1 in the first two races and not scoring any points. On the other hand, Tsunoda has shown impressive pace and has contributed all three points for the Racing Bulls team.

Honda has reportedly offered millions of dollars for Tsunoda to race alongside Verstappen in his fifth F1 season. Currently, Red Bull is behind McLaren and Mercedes in the constructors' championship, with Verstappen scoring all 36 points for the team so far.

Red Bull finished third in the 2024 constructors' championship and is hoping to improve their position this season with the help of Tsunoda.