Horner explains latest Tsunoda Red Bull snub

Christian Horner has explained the decision to promote Liam Lawson to Red Bull ahead of Yuki Tsunoda.

Tsunoda has four seasons of experience under his belt, having joined the sister Red Bull team in 2021.

The Japanese driver made his Red Bull test debut at the post-season outing in Abu Dhabi and highlighted his satisfaction with how the day unfolded.

However, it was not enough to convince Red Bull to promote him in place of Sergio Perez, whose exit from the Milton Keynes-based squad was announced earlier this week.

Instead, Red Bull opted to bring in Liam Lawson to partner Max Verstappen next year.

Speaking to ESPN, Horner stated there was little to chose between the pair when it came to a decison.

“It was very, very tight between the two of them,” Horner said. “I mean, Yuki is a very fast driver. 

“He’s got three or four seasons of experience now. He did a very good job in the tyre test for us in Abu Dhabi where the engineers were impressed with how he performed.”

Red Bull looked to Lawson data in key decision

However, Horner stated Red Bull was encouraged by Lawson’s race pace in comparison to Tsunoda.

“But we just felt with Liam, when you look and go into the analytics of his race, pace was slightly better in the races that he did,” he said.

“His qualifying pace was very tight with Yuki, and you’ve got to assume that the potential with Liam having only done 11 grand prix, is he’s only going to get better and stronger. 

“He’s shown real mental resilience and toughness.

“The engineers have enjoyed working with him through the running that he’s done this year. He’s got a good work ethic as well.”

Horner asserted Red Bull will grant Tsunoda a chance to race for the team should it need a sudden substitute appearance during the 2025 season.

“So it is great to have Yuki still involved with the Racing Bull scene next year. And of course he’s on standby should he ever be required.”