Formula One is no stranger to drama, but few teams generate as much behind-the-scenes intrigue as Red Bull Racing.
With an intense power struggle unfolding and a controversial driver shake-up, the reigning champions are battling more than just their on-track rivals.
The Downfall of a Rising Star
A well-placed insider summed it up perfectly in a text: “The gradual decline of the House of Red Bull.” Another source simply called it “chaos.”
And at the heart of this upheaval? The abrupt dismissal of Liam Lawson.
After just two races in the 2025 season, Red Bull made the shocking decision to drop the New Zealander, who had struggled at the back of the grid.
His replacement? Yuki Tsunoda, who will make his debut in Japan next weekend.
For Lawson, the dream appears over—at least for now.
The Enforcer Behind the Moves
The man pulling the strings in this high-stakes drama is none other than Helmut Marko.
At 81 years old, the no-nonsense Austrian remains one of Red Bull’s most influential figures, known for his ruthless approach to talent development.
He operates alongside team principal Christian Horner, who plays the “good cop” in these driver decisions.
Ultimately, however, every major move requires approval from the team’s shareholders: Chalerm Yoovidhya and Mark Mateschitz, the 32-year-old heir to the late Dietrich Mateschitz.
Adrian Newey’s Influence and Verstappen’s Displeasure
Lawson’s initial selection was heavily influenced by legendary designer Adrian Newey, who recently left for Aston Martin.
Newey had reservations about Tsunoda, seeing him as an emotional and unpredictable presence behind the wheel.
His concerns swayed Red Bull engineers, leading to Lawson being chosen over Tsunoda.
However, Lawson’s lackluster performances in Melbourne and China sealed his fate.
Marko insisted on his removal, though Horner argued for one more chance.
Ultimately, the axe fell, leaving Max Verstappen less than pleased.
While Verstappen hadn’t been thrilled about having Tsunoda as a teammate, he felt Lawson’s dismissal was overly harsh.
A Fragile Alliance
Verstappen’s relationship with Red Bull is deeply tied to Marko.
His contract even includes a clause allowing him to leave if Marko departs.
Yet, despite this connection, the internal power dynamics remain strained.
Verstappen’s camp—his father Jos, manager Raymond Vermeulen, and trusted race engineer Gianpiero Lambiase—holds significant influence.
Meanwhile, Horner, though crucial to day-to-day operations, does not hold the same personal importance for Verstappen.
A Missed Opportunity?
Could all this turmoil have been avoided? Some within Red Bull believe so.
Carlos Sainz was available last year after being let go by Ferrari to make way for Lewis Hamilton.
Bringing him back into the fold—after his earlier stint with Red Bull’s junior team—might have been the smarter move.
However, Verstappen’s camp wasn’t keen on the idea.
A history of tensions between Jos Verstappen and Carlos Sainz Sr. played a role in Red Bull steering clear of the Spaniard.
What’s Next for Red Bull?
Marko, reflecting on the decision, admitted that Lawson’s confidence took a hit, but he believes the young driver’s career isn’t over just yet.
“He’s not kicked out of Formula One. Racing Bulls will give him the chance to recover.”
As for Tsunoda, his unexpected promotion comes after a marked improvement in both confidence and performance.
He’s already begun simulator work in Milton Keynes, impressing with his feedback.
But in a team where stability seems fleeting, one question looms: how long before the next shake-up?b