Red Bull Racing’s team principal, Christian Horner, has reportedly declined a substantial £16.7 million offer from an undisclosed driver for a seat alongside Max Verstappen. This decision comes in the wake of the team’s choice to replace Liam Lawson with Yuki Tsunoda after only two races in the 2025 Formula 1 season.
Liam Lawson, 23, was brought into the main Red Bull team to replace Sergio Pérez, aiming to bolster the team’s performance in reclaiming the constructors’ title. However, after failing to score points in both the Australian and Chinese Grands Prix, Lawson has been demoted back to the junior Racing Bulls team. Yuki Tsunoda, 24, who has been part of the Racing Bulls, is set to take Lawson’s place starting from the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix.
The decision to promote Tsunoda aligns with Red Bull’s ongoing collaboration with their engine supplier, Honda, as Tsunoda has strong ties with the Japanese manufacturer. This move is anticipated to enhance the team’s dynamics, especially with Tsunoda’s familiarity with Red Bull’s operations and his experience in Formula 1.
The rejected £16.7 million offer highlights Red Bull’s commitment to selecting drivers based on performance and team synergy rather than financial incentives. Horner and the Red Bull management continue to focus on fostering talent that aligns with the team’s strategic goals and competitive aspirations.
