BREAKING NEWS: Red Bull Boss Backs Risky Driver Swap Amid C…read more
BREAKING NEWS: Red Bull Boss Backs Risky Driver Swap Amid C…read more
Red Bull Racing has stood firm in its decision to make a mid-season driver swap, despite growing criticism over their early struggles in the 2025 Formula 1 campaign.
Following the opening five rounds of the 24-race calendar, it’s clear the RB21 has proven difficult for Max Verstappen to master. The reigning four-time world champion has just one win to his name this season and trails both McLaren drivers in the standings. Meanwhile, rumors are swirling that Aston Martin are preparing a lucrative offer to pry Verstappen away, though Red Bull insists he remains committed to the team.
Amid Verstappen’s future speculation, Red Bull’s handling of their second driver has come under intense scrutiny. Liam Lawson was dropped after only two races, with Yuki Tsunoda being promoted in a surprise switch that sparked widespread debate.
Oliver Mintzlaff, Red Bull’s head of sports and media, has publicly defended the decision, speaking to Bild about why the team acted quickly.
“I understand the criticism and think it’s fair,” Mintzlaff admitted. “But it was still the correct choice. Formula 1 demands peak performance, and Liam’s results weren’t up to standard.”
Mintzlaff stressed that keeping Lawson in the car under mounting pressure would have been detrimental to the young driver’s development.
“It wouldn’t have helped him to stay under that level of stress,” he explained. “Ultimately, he accepted the decision, and we’re pleased to have him continue his growth with Racing Bulls.”
Despite their bumpy start, Mintzlaff urged fans and analysts not to count Red Bull out of the championship race just yet. With major updates on the horizon and plenty of races left, Red Bull is determined to fight back.
As Verstappen prepares for the upcoming Miami Grand Prix, all eyes will be on whether Red Bull’s high-stakes moves will pay off in time to revive their title hopes.
