Yuki Tsunoda says Red Bull team principal Christian Horner told him to be prepared in case of a promotion before his seat swap with Liam Lawson was confirmed, Red Bull opted to replace Lawson

Yuki Tsunoda has revealed Christian Horner’s message to him following his promotion to Red Bull for the Japanese Grand Prix. The Japanese driver will replace Liam Lawson from Suzuka onwards, whilst the Kiwi racer returns to Racing Bulls after Red Bull bosses concluded he had been promoted too soon.

Yuki Tsunoda has insisted he has been told by Red Bull team principal Christian Horner that he will be allowed to finish ahead of Max Verstappen if his performances allow. The Japanese driver will make his Red Bull debut at Suzuka this weekend in front of his home crowd after replacing Liam Lawson following two races.