Red Bull Racing

Subterms

    Latest story

    263 Shares20 Views

    ‘We know Max is not happy’ – Red Bull F1 chief breaks silence after Verstappen likes post slamming Liam Lawson axe

    by

    RED BULL chief Helmut Marko admits that Max Verstappen is “not happy” with Red Bull’s brutal axing of his team-mate Liam Lawson.The ruthless move to drop Lawson to sister team Racing Bulls and promote Yuki Tsunoda after two races was announced on Thursday.Liam Lawson has been brutally ditched by Red Bull after two races this seasonLawson has been replaced by Japan’s Yuki TsunodaMax Verstappen is frustrated with the decision to sack team-mate LawsonThe writing was on the wall after Lawson finished P15 at the Chinese Grand Prix and qualified last in both the sprint and the race in Shanghai.Red Bull team principal Christian Horner was immediately asked, and gave no assurances, about Lawson’s future after the race – won by McLaren’s Oscar Piastri.Lawson’s nightmare season began with him dropping out in Q1 at the Aussie GP, before crashing out of the opening race in Melbourne.Reports immediately suggested that Red Bull superstar Verstappen didn’t want Lawson so harshly replaced after two poor weekends in the RB21.READ MORE F1 NEWSThe Dutchman, 27, has been left disappointed and disagreed with the decision before it was made.He subsequently liked an Instagram post accusing Red Bull of “bullying” Lawson after the news was confirmed. And now Marko has broken his silence and accepted that the four-time world champion disapproves of the move.Horner’s advisor told De Telegraaf: “We know Max is not happy. But we need two cars at the front. Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”Not only for the constructors’ championship, but also to help Max to his fifth world title. Then you can achieve more strategically in races.”We can use Yuki’s experience and form now. That counts. At the end of the day, that is to the advantage of the team. “And that also means to the advantage of Max.”Red Bull chief Helmut Marko admits that Max Verstappen is ‘not happy’ with their decisionMax Verstappen takes to the stage at F1 launch event at the O2 Tsunoda – who has far greater F1 experience than Lawson – will suit up for Red Bull for the first time at his home Grand Prix in Japan next weekend.Meanwhile, Lawson will return to second team Racing Bulls as team-mate to French rookie Isack Hadjar.The New Zealander, 23, broke his silence in a moving social media post hours after the decision was announced.He wrote: “Being a Red Bull Racing driver has been my dream since I was a kid, it’s what I’ve worked towards my whole life.”It’s tough, but I’m grateful for everything that’s brought me to this point. “To every one of you who’s stood by me, thank you for all the support it means the world.”Thank you to Visa Cash App Racing Bulls for the warm welcome, I’m excited and ready to go to work at one of my favourite places.”Lawson was the latest in a line of drivers dating back to Pierre Gasly in 2019 – followed by Alex Albon and Sergio Perez – who have struggled to emulate Verstappen in taming the mechanical beast created by the Red Bull engineers.Horner said: “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.READ MORE SUN STORIES”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 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.” More

    More stories

    • 275 Shares22 Views

      in Motorsport

      ‘Dream since I was a kid’ – Liam Lawson breaks silence on Red Bull axe with emotional statement and posts childhood pics

      by

      LIAM LAWSON has broken his silence after being dropped by Red Bull.The 23-year-old has had a nightmare start to the Formula One season after failing to score any points in the first two weekends.Liam Lawson has broken his silence after being axed by Red BullCredit: APLawson said it was always his dream to be an F1 driver and shared childhood photosLawson shared a drawing he did as a young boy, predicting he would be an F1 driverRed Bull chiefs confirmed this morning they would be swapping the Kiwi driver for Racing Bulls star Yuki Tsunoda, with Lawson heading back to the team he had driven 11 races before across two stints in 2023 and 2024.Much has been said of the move, with Max Verstappen appearing to not be too happy about the situation after liking a social media post comparing it to “bullying”.Lawson was the latest in a line of drivers dating back to Pierre Gasly in 2019 – followed by Alex Albon and Sergio Perez – who have struggled to emulate Verstappen in taming the mechanical beast created by the Red Bull engineers.However, following his demotion to the sister team, Lawson has addressed the situation with a heartfelt social media post.READ MORE IN F1Taking to Instagram hours after the news was confirmed, Lawson posted a photo of himself as a kid in school with an old drawing he did outlining his dream of becoming an F1 driver.Lawson captioned his post: “Being a @redbullracing driver has been my dream since I was a kid, it’s what I’ve worked towards my whole life. “It’s tough, but I’m grateful for everything that’s brought me to this point. “To every one of you who’s stood by me, thank you for all the support it means the world.Most read in MotorsportBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK”Thank you @visacashapprb for the warm welcome, I’m excited and ready to go to work at one of my favourite places.”Tsunoda, 24, had said he would welcome a team switch if offered because the Red Bull car was faster.Meet F1 2025 rookies including star gifted first go-kart by Michael Schumacher and Brit teen who’s already a millionaire Lawson has been replaced by Japan’s Yuki TsunodaCredit: PAChristian Horner believes Red Bull made the right decision in replacing Lawson with TsunodaCredit: GETTYLiam Lawson recently gloated about getting the better of Yuki Tsunoda in F3Credit: GETTYHowever, Lawson seemed to not take the comments too well, saying after the Chinese Grand Prix: “He can say whatever he wants. I’ve raced him for years, raced him in the junior categories and beat him.”If I look back over our careers, I was team-mates with him in F3 and I beat him. In Euroformula I was team-mates with him, [and] in New Zealand, and I beat him there.“Then in F1 last season I think honestly, if I look at all the times he got promoted instead of me in those early years, then no. He’s had his time. Now it’s my time.”The pair were team-mates in the motorsport last season, with the Japanese driver out-qualifying Lawson 6-0 and going 4-2 in their head-to-head race finishes.On the decision, team boss Christian Horner said: “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.READ MORE SUN STORIES”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 is the next race on the calendar on April 6. More

    • 175 Shares18 Views

      in Motorsport

      Max Verstappen likes bombshell Instagram post comparing Christian Horner’s Liam Lawson axing to ‘bullying’

      by

      MAX VERSTAPPEN has liked an Instagram post accusing Red Bull of “bullying” Liam Lawson. It came after Lawson was dropped to Racing Bulls in favour of Yuki Tsunoda, who has been promoted to race alongside team-mate Verstappen.Max Verstappen liked an Instagram post accusing Red Bull of ‘bullying’ axed Liam LawsonLiam Lawson has been brutally ditched by Red BullCredit: APLawson has been replaced by Japan’s Yuki TsunodaCredit: PAVerstappen, the four-time world champion, is understood to be unhappy about the team’s decision to axe Lawson so fast.Many believe Lawson, 23, should have been given more than two races to prove himself and get used to the RB21.The Dutchman’s actions raise further questions about his relationship with the Milton Keynes-based team.Tensions grew last year after allegations of “inappropriate behaviour” from a female employee aimed at team principal Christian Horner.READ MORE IN F1Horner has since been cleared of those allegations by two separate internal investigations, but Verstappen’s future with the team has been questioned.Red Bull confirmed on Thursday morning that Lawson and sister team driver Tsunoda would switch roles for the Japanese Grand Prix.The New Zealander will return to second team Racing Bulls as team-mate to French rookie Isack Hadjar.In a statement, Red Bull said Lawson was pulled out of the firing line after his “difficult” start to the campaign.Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSLawson’s nightmare season began with him dropping out in Q1 at the rain-swept Aussie GP, before crashing out of the opening race in Melbourne.A week later, the Kiwi again qualified last in both the sprint and race for the Shanghai GP – despite sitting in the second-best car in F1 last season.Red Bull’s Christian Horner gives low down on car before F1 season kicks off with Australian Grand Prix The RB21 might be tailored for Verstappen, but mustering a P15 finish in Shanghai was too much for Horner.Meanwhile, Tsunoda – who earns nearly double Lawson’s £800,000 salary – qualified fifth in Australia and ninth in China but finished outside of the top 10 for both races due to strategy calls.The ruthless call has drawn criticism from the F1 world.Former Dutch F1 driver, Giedo van der Garde – who drove for Caterham in 2013 – was one who has been particularly critical of the shock move.Van der Garde took to Instagram to share his disgust, writing: ” Yes, you gotta perform. Yes, the pressure is insane. “But in my opinion this comes closer to bullying or a panic move than actual high athlete achievements. “They made a decision – fully aware – gave Liam two races only to crush his spirit.”Don’t forget the dedication, hard work and success Liam has put in his career so far to achieve the level where he is now.”I remember my own blood, sweat and tears – and that was to reach F1. Let alone driving for an absolute top team. “Yes, he underperformed the first two races – but if anyone’s aware of that it’s himself.”Former F1 star Giedo van der Garde has launched a scathing defence of LawsonCredit: GettyVerstappen, interestingly, liked the post but it seems he has since un-liked it.Lawson was promoted to Red Bull in the off-season, succeeding Mexican driver Sergio Perez.Tsunoda is expected to become Verstappen’s sixth different partner at Red Bull since he made the step up in 2016.That is after Daniel Riccardo, Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, Sergio Perez and Lawson.Red Bull said they were making use of their unique position as the only team on the grid with four race seats, arguing it was a kindness to Lawson.Team principal Horner said: “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 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.”Horner is hoping 24-year-old Tsunoda’s experience will help with the team’s developing of the RB21.The decision will surely make things awkward between rivals Lawson and Tsunoda, who have shared fiery words in recent days.Tsunoda was more than pleased when quizzed about a potential swap before the news was announced on Thursday.The Japanese star said: “Yeah, 100 per cent. The car is faster, I’m sure.”But a fuming Lawson hit back, saying: “He can say whatever he wants.”I’ve raced him for years, raced him in the junior categories and beat him.”If I look back over our careers, I was team mates with him in F3 and I beat him.“In Euroformula I was team mates with him, [and] in New Zealand, and I beat him there.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Then in F1 last season I think honestly, if I look at all the times he got promoted instead of me in those early years, then no.”He’s had his time. Now it’s my time.”Lawson and Tsunoda have been team-mates in junior and senior teams More

    • 263 Shares30 Views

      in Motorsport

      Christian Horner takes no prisoners after ‘sext’ scandal as Red Bull boss swings axe in bid to avoid another horror year

      by

      CHRISTIAN HORNER is taking no prisoners just one-year on from his ‘sexting’ scandal.The Red Bull boss’ ruthless axing of Liam Lawson for Yuki Tsunoda after just two races showed he will do anything it takes to avoid a repeat of last year’s horror show.Christian Horner is taking no prisoners at Red BullCredit: GettyHe has axed new ace Liam Lawson after just two F1 racesCredit: APYuki Tsunoda has now been promoted as No2 to Max VerstappenCredit: PAAs Horner said in the very first episode of the latest series of Drive to Survive: “The buck stops with me.”Red Bull finished third in the constructors’ championship last season, as the team was rocked after Horner was accused by a female colleague of “inappropriate behaviour”.The 51-year-old was twice cleared by an independent investigation, but there was then a string of high profile exits, including legendary designer Adrian Newey and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley.And Max Verstappen had to block out his dad Jos’ explosive rows with Horner over the scandal – and deal with a shoddy car – to seal a consecutive fourth world title, and spare the team’s blushes.READ MORE IN F1Horner wanted to leave that sordid season behind him, but he was savagely reminded when he was booed by thousands at the O2 F1 live event in February ahead of the new season.The paddock hasn’t forgotten either, with Horner’s rival, McLaren boss Zak Brown, recently saying he should be feeling “vulnerable” in his position.Horner has overseen eight drivers’ titles and six constructors’ championships as Red Bull team principal, but both are already looking under threat this season.Sergio Perez and Alex Albon have found before Lawson that driving a car tailored to four-time world champion Verstappen is no easy ride.Most read in MotorsportThe hiring and firing policy of the brutal Red Bull system under Horner and senior adviser Helmut Marko has been hit or miss over the years.Christian Klein, Scott Speed, Sebastien Bourdais, Sebastien Buemi, Jaime Alguersuari, Jean-Eric Vergne, Daniil Kvyat, Brendon Hartley, Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon have all been chewed up and spat out since the team started out in 2005.Red Bull’s Christian Horner gives low down on car before F1 season kicks off with Australian Grand Prix Horner was accused by a female colleague of ‘inappropriate behaviour’ last seasonCredit: AFPThe Red Bull chief, married to Geri Halliwell, was twice cleared by an independent investigationCredit: GettyHorner is hoping Verstappen can win another title with a new team-mateCredit: GettyIn recent years the second driver at Red Bull walks into the team knowing full well they will always be the bridesmaid and never the bride to Verstappen, who along with Sebastian Vettel, is the only driver unscathed so far by Horner’s ruthless policy.Sometimes Horner has made on paper the right decision, with Perez finishing a whopping 285 points behind Verstappen before he was replaced by Lawson.If the Mexican driver had raced in only the first two grands prix of the season, and none of the other 22, Red Bull would still have finished third.Kiwi driver Lawson, 23, suffered a dreadful start, being knocked out at the first stage of all three qualifying sessions including for the sprint and also failed to pick up a single point.Verstappen is still said to be unhappy with Red Bull’s decision despite them already being 42 points behind the reigning champions, McLaren, while Verstappen is second in the drivers’ championship, eight points behind Lando Norris.Horner said in a Red Bull statement confirming the news on Thursday morning: “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 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 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 Racing Bulls, an environment and a Team he knows very well.”READ MORE SUN STORIESRed Bull chose to promote Lawson from their junior squad Racing Bulls after just 11 Grand Prix appearances in two short spells across 2023 and 2024, despite Tsunoda having more experience.Only time will tell if history repeats itself for Tsunoda. More

    • 263 Shares18 Views

      in Motorsport

      Inside Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda’s bitter six-year rivalry as Red Bull become first F1 team to axe driver this season

      by

      THINGS are about to get a lot more awkward between long-term rivals Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson.Habitually ruthless Red Bull have dropped Lawson for sister team driver Tsunoda after just TWO races of the 2025 season.Liam Lawson has been brutally ditched by Red BullCredit: RexLawson has been replaced by Japan’s Yuki TsunodaCredit: GettyLawson, 23, has been dumped by Red Bull chiefs after failing to get to grips with the RB21 during the Australian and Chinese Grands Prix.With the structure set up between Red Bull Racing and sister team Racing Bulls, driver rotations are possible among the four seats.Lawson’s nightmare season began with him dropping out in Q1 at the Aussie GP, before crashing out of the opening race in Melbourne.A week later, the Kiwi again qualified last in both the sprint and race for the Shanghai GP – despite sitting in the second-best car in F1 last season.READ MORE IN F1The RB21 might be tailored for Max Verstappen, but mustering a P15 finish in Shanghai was too much for team principal Christian Horner.Meanwhile, Tsunoda – who earns nearly double Lawson’s £800,000 salary – qualified fifth in Australia and ninth in China but finished outside of the top 10 for both races, due to strategy calls.The decision to overlook Tsunoda for Lawson when replacing Sergio Perez – who endured a nightmare 2024 season- before Christmas was a strange one.Having already spent four years in F1, Tsunoda is significantly more experienced than Lawson, who had entered only 11 grands prix in two short spells across 2023 and 2024.Most read in MotorsportCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSTsunoda, 24, will be given a baptism of fire on home soil as he’ll officially replace Lawson at the Japanese Grand Prix next weekend.Meanwhile, the New Zealander will return to second team Racing Bulls as team-mate to French rookie Isack Hadjar.But there appears to be no love lost between Lawson and his replacement driver, who have known each other since their teens.SunSport takes a look inside their growing rivalry.Law and order showdownIn the past week, there has been a fiery war of words between the pair, who have raced each other all the way back to junior formula.Tsunoda was more than pleased when quizzed about a potential swap before the news was announced on Thursday.The Japanese star said: “Yeah, 100 per cent. The car is faster, I’m sure.”But a fuming Lawson hit back, saying: “He can say whatever he wants.”I’ve raced him for years, raced him in the junior categories and beat him. “If I look back over our careers, I was team mates with him in F3 and I beat him.“In Euroformula I was team mates with him, [and] in New Zealand, and I beat him there.“Then in F1 last season I think honestly, if I look at all the times he got promoted instead of me in those early years, then no.”He’s had his time. Now it’s my time.”Lawson cited his regular wins over Tsunoda as the reason being picked ahead of himCredit: GettyJunior yearsTsunoda and Lawson were team-mates many times during their junior careers.The New Zealander outscored Tsunoda in the 2019 Euroformula Open, where both drove for Motopark.The order was reversed in the FIA F3 series that year, though they drove for different teams.They faced each other again in the New Zealand Toyota Racing Series the following year. Lawson narrowly failed to reclaim the title he won the year before while Tsunoda, making his debut in the series, finished fourth.McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown is among those who queried Red Bull’s decision to promote Lawson instead of Tsunoda.Lawson said he “couldn’t care less” about his opinion.He added: “I think he’s still hurt because I talked about his national anthem.” The pair have been team-mates in junior and senior teamsCredit: GettyRacing Bulls and AlphaTauriTsunoda had been at Red Bulls’ junior team AlphaTauri since 2021 -having been the top rookie in F2 – before his foe joined in 2023.AlphaTauri has since transitioned into Racing Bulls.They raced against each other in the latter stages of 2024 after Lawson replaced Daniel Ricciardo at the then-named RB team.The Japanese driver out qualified Lawson 6-0 and went 4-2 in their race finish head-to-head. Tsunoda was the 12th best driver on the grid last season, finishing with 30 points – which was 12 behind Pierre Gasly.Meanwhile, Lawson finished 21st, with a respectable four points picked up across his 11 races.The advantage on the timesheet lies with Tsunoda – perhaps inevitably, given he has raced in 89 F1 races compared to just 13 for his rival.Yuki Tsunoda will represent Red Bull in his home GP in Japan on April 6Horner’s Red Bull rejectsLawson will be advised that his demotion is an opportunity for him to rebuild his career, in the same way as earlier Red Bull rejects Gasly and Alex Albon have done.Gasly was demoted to the second Red Bull team after just half a season in 2019 in a swap with Albon, who was given a season and a half before being demoted to reserve driver in place of Perez.The Frenchman has since moved to Alpine and Albon to Williams, and both have thrived.Perez no longer has an F1 seat after being dropped at the end of last season with a multi-million pound pay-off.The decision to ace Lawson has been described as “performance-based” and the team’s “duty of care” to take him out of the firing line.Verstappen is second in the F1 Drivers’ Championship on 45 points, whereas Lawson has not scored any.Christian Horner said it was a ‘sporting decision’ to drop Lawson for TsunodaCredit: RexTeam principal Horner said: “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.READ MORE SUN STORIES”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 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.” More

    • 250 Shares32 Views

      in Motorsport

      Red Bull brutally AXE driver for bitter rival after just two races and announce replacement in chaotic start to season

      by

      LIAM LAWSON has been brutally axed from Red Bull after two horror drives.Red Bull have announced that Yuki Tsunoda will replace Lawson in their senior racing squad.Liam Lawson has been brutally ditched by Red BullCredit: AFPThe 23-year-old has paid the price for poor displays in the Australian and Chinese Grands PrixCredit: PALawson has been replaced by Japan’s Yuki TsunodaCredit: PALawson, 23, has been dumped by Red Bull chiefs after failing to get to grips with the RB21 during the Australian and Chinese Grands Prix.He crashed out of the Aussie GP and could only muster a 15th-place finish in Shanghai, displays which have ultimately led to Red Bull wielding the axe.And the decision will have irked his team-mate Max Verstappen, who reportedly was “not happy” after learning of Red Bull’s plans.An excerpt of a Red Bull statement read: “Red Bull are in the unique position of having four seats on the Formula One grid, across Oracle Red Bull Racing and Visa Cash App Racing Bulls. “And as such, the Team have made the decision to exercise a driver rotation, that will see Yuki partner current and four-time World Champion, Max Verstappen.”Tsunoda – who earns nearly double Lawson’s £800,000 salary – will be given a baptism of fire on home soil as he’ll officially replace Lawson at the Japanese Grand Prix.The decision to replace Lawson wasn’t an easy one for Team Principal and CEO Christian Horner to make.He said: “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. Most read in MotorsportJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSChristian Horner believes Red Bull made the right decision in replacing Lawson with TsunodaCredit: GETTY”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.”Horner is hoping 24-year-old Tsunoda’s experience will help with the team’s developing of the RB21.Red Bull’s Christian Horner gives low down on car before F1 season kicks off with Australian Grand Prix He added: “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.”The demoted Lawson will now drop down to Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, which Horner believes will be beneficial for his development as a driver.He said: “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.”Lawson’s axing comes just days after he gloated about getting the better of Tsunoda in F3.He told The Telegraph: “If I look back over our careers, I was team mates with him in F3 and I beat him.“In Euroformula I was team mates with him, [and] in New Zealand, and I beat him there.Liam Lawson recently gloated about getting the better of Yuki Tsunoda in F3Credit: GETTYLawson’s midel girlfriend Hannah St. John is often seen accompanying him to race weekends around the paddockCredit: INSTAGRAMThe pair have been dating for two yearsCredit: INSTAGRAM“Then in F1 last season I think honestly, if I look at all the times he got promoted instead of me in those early years, then no.”He’s had his time. Now it’s my time.”Lawson’s girlfriend – Hannah St. John – will no doubt be consoling him following his demotion.The couple have been together for two years and have looked the picture of happiness every time they’ve been on the paddock with one another.Defending champion F1 champion and Red Bull superstar Verstappen has yet to win a race this season. READ MORE SUN STORIESHe finished second to Brit star and McLaren standout Lando Norris in the Australian GP. And the Dutchman could only muster a fourth-placed finish in the Chinese Grand Prix, which was won by McLaren’s Oscar Piastri. More

    • 275 Shares38 Views

      in Motorsport

      Inside axed F1 star Liam Lawson’s glamorous life with stunning model Wag as he’s set to be brutally replaced by Red Bull

      by

      LIAM LAWSON has had nothing short of a nightmare start to life at Red Bull this year.After a strong debut replacing Daniel Ricciardo at VCARB in 2023 and then again in 2024, the 23-year-old started out his first race with the team by failing to finish the Australian Grand Prix. Liam Lawson is set to be axed by Red Bull after a horror start to his F1 career thereCredit: AFPBut Lawson leads a glamorous life off the track with girlfriend Hannah St. JohnCredit: INSTAGRAMShe is often seen accompanying him to race weekends around the paddockCredit: INSTAGRAMThe couple have been dating for two yearsCredit: INSTAGRAMThey happily share loved-up snaps togetherCredit: INSTAGRAMHannah graduated from Arizona State University after studying biological and biomedical sciencesCredit: INSTAGRAMHe then followed this up with an even more embarrassing weekend in China as he qualified dead last in both Sprint and normal qualifying while failing to score any points for his team.But for Lawson, who revealed his parents had to sell their house to fund his Formula One dream, his Red Bull nightmare is set to come to a close before the next race at the Japanese Grand Prix.The New Zealander is on the verge of being swapped to sister team Racing Bulls in favour of Yuki Tsunoda, who was the main rival for the Red Bull seat alongside Max Verstappen before Lawson landed it.However, despite his F1 career starting out in horror fashion, Lawson can be thankful for a glamorous lifestyle away from the circuit with stunning girlfriend Hannah St. John.READ MORE IN F1The pair have been dating one another for two years and are often seen sharing loved-up images with one another on Instagram.Hannah typically splits her time between her home city of California and London while also studying at Arizona State University.While there she studied biological and biomedical sciences, graduating back in December, but has carved out a fledgling career as a social media influencer and model.The beauty has already amassed over 40,000 followers on Instagram.Most read in MotorsportBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKShe treats her fans to her epic lifestyle, which included being back stage at Luke Combs’ Nashville concert last January.Hannah also shares plenty of bikini snaps online, showing off her enviable figure.Meet F1 2025 rookies including star gifted first go-kart by Michael Schumacher and Brit teen who’s already a millionaire To top it off, she enjoys travelling – most recently, she went on a glam ski strip to Deer Valley in Utah.She has also been a constant presence in the F1 paddock whenever Lawson, who started out his career in the motorsport with a string of substitute appearances, is there.With one million followers of his own on Instagram, Lawson is no stranger to the buzz of social media and often posts snaps from day-to-day life.Whether that is his time at the track or jetting around on holiday with Hannah or even hitting the gym.One pic shows him hanging out with stars from the Los Angeles Rams NFL team, a second shows him driving a more than £100,000 Shelby while another features him on the front cover of GQ Magazine.Despite the lavish lifestyle, Lawson has a relatively modest salary compared to his rivals.He earns £800,000 a year, though that value could decrease once his demotion to Racing Bulls is complete, with Tsunoda in turn getting a pay rise.Tsunoda, 24, said he would happily swap seats for his home race.However, Lawson bit back by saying: “He can say whatever he wants. I’ve raced him for years, raced him in the junior categories and beat him.”If I look back over our career, I was team-mates with him in F3 and I beat him. In Euro Formula, I was team-mates with him in New Zealand, and I beat him there.”And then in F1 last season, I think honestly, if I look at all the times he got promoted instead of me in those early years, then no. He’s had his time. Now it’s my time.”Despite Lawson’s claim, he was out-qualified by Tsunoda 7-2 when the pair were team-mates during the closing stages of last season. It was also 4-2 in the Japanese driver’s favour for the five races Lawson subbed in for Ricciardo during the 2023 season.The driver swap decision has reportedly left main man Verstappen frustrated, with the four-time world champion having previously sang Lawson’s praises.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe said: “That Racing Bulls car is easier to drive than ours. I notice that when I talk to Liam. Last year the difference between him and Yuki wasn’t that big, I thought.”Otherwise the team wouldn’t have made the choice to put Liam in at Red Bull.” More

    • 225 Shares47 Views

      in Motorsport

      Max Verstappen ‘not happy with Red Bull’s decision to axe F1 team-mate Liam Lawson after just two races’

      by

      MAX VERSTAPPEN has been left frustrated by Red Bull’s reported decision to sack team-mate Liam Lawson just two races into the new season.Lawson, 23, has endured a difficult start to his Red Bull career, failing to score a single point from three opportunities despite driving one of the best cars on the grid.Max Verstappen is frustrated with the decision to sack team-mate Liam LawsonCredit: AlamyLawson has endured a difficult start to his Red Bull careerCredit: AFPYuki Tsunoda is expected to replace Lawson at Red BullCredit: GettyAccording to Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, the decision has been made to demote the New Zealander after his recent promotion from the Racing Bulls team and call up Yuki Tsunoda instead.However, Verstappen has been left disappointed and he expressed his disagreement with the decision that is expected to be confirmed soon.According to The Telegraph, the swap is imminent but there are some final details to be ironed out.The switch will be made official before the Japan Grand Prix next week.Read More on F1The defending Formula One world champion previously sang Lawson’s praises despite his tough start.Verstappen said: “That Racing Bulls car is easier to drive than ours. I notice that when I talk to Liam.”Last year the difference between him and Yuki wasn’t that big, I thought. “Otherwise the team wouldn’t have made the choice to put Liam in at Red Bull.”Most read in MotorsportTsunoda is expected to become Verstappen’s sixth different partner at Red Bull since he made the step up in 2016.That is after Daniel Riccardo, Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, Sergio Perez and Lawson.Max Verstappen takes to the stage at F1 launch event at the O2 And the Japanese driver is facing a daunting task as all of the above struggled alongside the Dutchman. More

    • 250 Shares28 Views

      in Motorsport

      Red Bull F1 team descend into chaos just two races into season as driver facing axe fumes over potential replacement

      by

      RED BULL have descended into chaos again just two races into the new season.Liam Lawson, who joined the team this season, could be axed at the next Grand Prix in Japan and replaced by Yuki Tsunoda.Red Bull appear to be in chaos just two weeks into the new Formula One seasonCredit: GettyLiam Lawson could be axed by the team after just two racesCredit: RexMax Verstappen is targeting a fifth successive F1 titleCredit: GettyThe Kiwi driver, 23, has suffered a woeful start to the 2025 campaign.He was knocked out at the first stage of all three qualifying sessions and has also failed to pick up a single point.Lawson is way behind his team-mate Max Verstappen in terms of race pace, with the Dutchman second in the driver’s standings, eight points behind Lando Norris.Red Bull boss Christian Horner has not ruled out an early-season swap, with Tsunoda impressing for the sister team Racing Bulls.READ MORE ON F1When Tsunoda was asked about a swap, he said: “Yeah, 100 per cent. The car is faster, I’m sure.”The next race is in Japan (4-6 April) and is Tsunoda’s home grand prix.But a fuming Lawson hit back, saying: “He can say whatever he wants.”I’ve raced him for years, raced him in the junior categories and beat him.Most read in MotorsportBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”If I look back over our career, I was team-mates with him in F3 and I beat him.”In Euro Formula, I was team-mates with him in New Zealand, and I beat him there. Meet F1 newbie Liam Lawson’s stunning girlfriend Hannah St. John, who is also a model and medical student “And then in F1 last season, I think honestly, if I look at all the times he got promoted instead of me in those early years, then no.”He’s had his time. Now it’s my time.”Sergio Perez and Alex Albon found before Lawson that driving a car tailored to four-time world champion Verstappen is no easy ride.Red Bull chose to promote Lawson from their junior squad Racing Bulls after just 11 Grand Prix appearances in two short spells across 2023 and 2024, despite Tsunoda having more experience.Team advisor Helmut Marko claimed that a meeting had been scheduled for next week to discuss the situation, but Horner said “nothing specific” had been set up.Yuki Tsunoda could take over the No. 2 role for Red BullCredit: GettyHe added: “Liam still has got potential, we’re just not realising that at the moment.”The problem for him is, he’s had a couple of really tough weekends, he’s got all the media on his back.”The pressure just naturally grows in this business, and I feel very sorry for him. “You can see it’s very tough on him at the moment.”Horner will be feeling the pressure to deliver this season given Red Bull’s chaotic campaign last year, where the team was rocked by his ‘sexting’ scandal.He was accused by a female colleague of “inappropriate behaviour” but was twice cleared by an independent investigation.There was then a string of high-profile exits, including legendary designer Adrian Newey and sporting director Jonathan Wheatley.READ MORE SUN STORIESThey also missed out on the Constructor’s title with Perez finishing a whopping 285 points behind Verstappen before he was axed for Lawson.But it seems history is repeating itself. More