After a week where the grid was quiet, Formula 1 is back for this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix.
But while the grid itself was silent, the sport was filled with noise.
The first shocking development of the 2025 F1 season came as Red Bull made the snap decision to demote Liam Lawson, sending the young driver to Visa Cash App Racing Bulls after just two race weekends. He’ll drive alongside Isack Hadjar starting this weekend.
Taking Lawson’s place next to Max Verstappen? None other than Yuki Tsunoda, who makes his long-desired debut for Red Bull at his home race, the Japanese Grand Prix. While Tsunoda was passed over in favor of Lawson for the spot next to Verstappen this past winter, his strong form to begin the year, coupled with Lawson’s struggles, opened the door to a Red Bull debut.
But that is not the only storyline to watch this weekend. Can McLaren make it three in a row? Can Ferrari bounce back after a double disqualification at the Chinese Grand Prix? Is Mercedes the surprise package this season?
We’ll be following it all this week as F1 heads to Suzuka for the Japanese Grand Prix.
