Peter Bayer, CEO of VCARB, is confident that both Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda are ready to face the challenge of racing alongside Max Verstappen at Red Bull Racing for the 2025 Formula 1 season. With Sergio Perez expected to be replaced, either Lawson or Tsunoda will take his place in the senior team, and Bayer believes that both drivers have the necessary qualities to succeed.
Lawson, who will have completed just 11 races by the end of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, has impressed with his performances. After stepping in as a substitute for Daniel Ricciardo in 2023 and then taking over as a full-time driver after the Singapore Grand Prix, Lawson’s six-race stint is seen as an audition for the 2025 seat. Despite his relative inexperience compared to Tsunoda, Lawson is reportedly the favorite for Perez’s seat, although Tsunoda also has strong backing. Bayer emphasized Tsunoda’s significant improvements this season, noting that the Japanese driver has grown both physically and mentally, closing in on his full potential.
Bayer explained that Tsunoda’s performances this year have been crucial for VCARB, contributing 30 of the team’s 46 points and keeping the team competitive in the Constructors’ Championship race. When asked if Tsunoda is ready to race for a front-running team like Red Bull, Bayer responded affirmatively, acknowledging Tsunoda’s excellent development under former team boss Franz Tost and current boss Laurent Mekies. While Tsunoda has made great strides, Bayer pointed out that he still struggles with controlling his emotions at times, but believes this is the only remaining flaw in an otherwise strong skill set.
Bayer made it clear that Tsunoda is not necessarily the leader of VCARB’s driver lineup, despite his experience. Both Tsunoda and Lawson are treated equally, with Bayer emphasizing that neither driver is seen as the definitive team leader. Regarding the dynamic of racing alongside Verstappen, Bayer acknowledged the immense challenge of trying to match Verstappen’s pace. He referred to an interview with Alex Albon, where Albon explained that racing against Verstappen isn’t about direct competition but about adapting the car setup to meet Verstappen’s aggressive approach. Drivers must be strong-minded and mature enough to avoid the trap of trying to emulate Verstappen’s setup, which may not always work.
Bayer expressed confidence in both Lawson and Tsunoda, stating, “If an opportunity presented itself, I think Yuki, as Liam… they’re both up to the challenge, honestly, I’m confident.” With Red Bull set to make a decision soon, Bayer’s comments suggest that both VCARB drivers are seen as capable of stepping up to the senior team and taking on the challenge of partnering with Verstappen in 2025.
