Bold changes might be in the works for the Red Bull junior team lineup for the 2025 F1 season.
- Yuki Tsunoda could be expected to replace Sergio Perez at Red Bull Racing.
- Liam Lawson and Isack Hadjar might join the VCARB team.
- Sergio Perez’s performance might lead to his early exit despite his new contract.
- Daniel Ricciardo could be looking at a new team as Red Bull seeks a spot for him.
The Formula 1 world is buzzing with potential changes for Red Bull’s junior team in 2025. Rumors are swirling that Yuki Tsunoda might step up to Red Bull Racing, replacing Sergio Perez. If true, this could open doors for Liam Lawson and Isack Hadjar to join the VCARB team, Red Bull’s current junior squad.
Despite Perez recently signing a new two-year contract, his inconsistent performance has led to speculation about his future. Reports from PlanetF1.com suggest that if Perez doesn’t improve soon, Red Bull might replace him as early as the 2024 season. It’s also worth noting that Red Bull has performance clauses in Perez’s contract, giving them flexibility to make changes.
Long-time Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has expressed a desire to see VCARB return to its roots of nurturing young talent, reminiscent of the Toro Rosso days. Consequently, Lawson, who impressed during a brief stint with VCARB in 2023, could get a permanent seat. Lawson’s contract reportedly contains a clause allowing him to leave Red Bull if not promoted by 2025, increasing the urgency for Red Bull to make a decision.
On the other hand, Hadjar, the current leader of the F2 standings, recently had the opportunity to drive Perez’s car during the British Grand Prix practice run. His impressive performance has bolstered his chances to replace Daniel Ricciardo at VCARB.
Ricciardo’s struggle to regain form since his return to F1 has added to the speculation. Although Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal and a personal friend of Ricciardo, would like to see him stay, the team is reportedly working to find him a seat with another team for 2025. Interestingly, Audi, set to join F1 in 2026, has shown little interest in Ricciardo, complicating his potential move.
Ricciardo remains optimistic about his prospects, despite the swirling rumors. He has stated that he is focused on his performance and will cross the bridge when he comes to it. His attitude seems to be one of resilience and readiness for whatever the future holds.
The 2025 season could see significant shifts in Red Bull’s driver lineup, making it an exciting time for fans and drivers alike.
