“F1 is an extremely tough sport”: Liam Lawson comments on Yuki Tsunoda situation. Liam Lawson reflects on Yuki Tsunoda’s F1 exit.

Liam Lawson has been confirmed at Racing Bulls for 2026, partnering with Arvid Lindblad.

The New Zealander faced a unique first season in Formula 1, as after just two races in Red Bull, he was moved down to Racing Bulls in place of Yuki Tsunoda.

Lawson has repeatedly stated that this short “trial” period was too brief to understand his own performance, even admitting that he barely remembers those races. However, in hindsight, the junior team showed strong performances throughout the year, allowing the 23-year-old to be retained for 2026.

Yuki Tsunoda, on the other hand, had to leave his seat and will be replaced by the young Isack Hadjar at Red Bull, who scored an impressive 51 points, finishing 12th in the championship.

Lawson on Tsunoda’s situation

Speaking specifically about the Japanese driver, Liam Lawson admitted: “It’s a complicated situation, because I have respect for anyone who isn’t in Formula 1 but has worked so hard to get there.”

“At the same time, though, there are many drivers who never even get a chance. He was in Formula 1 for several years, and this is an extremely tough sport, something I’ve learned firsthand,” he added.

Yuki competed in Formula 1 from 2021 to 2025. After years of proving himself, he was finally promoted to Red Bull but did not achieve the expected results. Next year, he will serve as reserve driver for both Racing Bulls and Red Bull, with the possibility of returning to an official race seat in the coming seasons.

Ultimately, Liam Lawson’s comments highlight the brutal nature of the F1 paddock, where longevity is never guaranteed and performance is the only currency that matters. While Yuki Tsunoda transitions to a reserve role, Liam Lawson and the next generation of Red Bull talent like Hadjar and Lindblad face the immense pressure of staying at the top of an “extremely tough” sport.