Tsunoda Replaces Lawson, Becomes Verstappen's Sixth Red Bull Teammate

Yuki Tsunoda has stepped in as Max Verstappen's third teammate in just four races at Red Bull, replacing Liam Lawson, who struggled to score points during his brief stint. This rapid succession of changes at Red Bull highlights the pressure on drivers to perform alongside the four-time world champion, as Verstappen has seen seven different teammates in his career. Lawson's replacement raises questions about Red Bull's junior program and their ability to manage drivers effectively. Historically, teammates like Daniel Ricciardo, Pierre Gasly, and Alexander Albon have faced challenges in keeping pace with Verstappen, often leading to their demotion. While Sergio Perez enjoyed a successful tenure, his performance declined towards the end of 2024, paving the way for Tsunoda, who must quickly adapt to maintain the team's competitive edge. The situation reflects both the team's dependence on Verstappen's talent and the difficulties faced by those in the second seat.