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Topics: Formula 1, Red Bull Racing, Liam Lawson, Helmut Marko, Motorsport
Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has revealed how long Yuki Tsunoda will have to prove himself at Red Bull following the demotion of Liam Lawson after just two races.
Lawson became the shortest-serving Red Bull driver in history when it was announced he would be replaced by Tsunoda for the Japanese Grand Prix.
Red Bull have received significant criticism for their brutal decision, which has included Max Verstappen who liked an Instagram post accusing the team of 'bullying' Lawson.
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Given the cut-throat nature of Lawson's exit, many have questioned how long Red Bull will give Tsunoda to get up to speed, particularly considering he wasn't deemed good enough just weeks ago.
However, speaking to Formel1.de Marko has revealed exactly how much time the Japanese driver will get to edge closer to Verstappen's pace.
"Yuki Tsunoda will finish the season," Marko confirmed.
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Marko also acknowledged the improvements of Tsunoda and explained the reason they opted against promoting him earlier.
"Yuki Tsunoda is a fast driver, we know that, but he's had his ups and downs," he added.
"That's why we thought Lawson was the better and stronger candidate. But Yuki has undergone a transformation. He changed his management, and in this situation, this was simply the best option."
The 81-year-old also revealed that the decision to promote Tsunoda came after completing impressive simulator sessions following the Chinese Grand Prix.
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"We had to act quickly," he said.
"And everything was positive. Also, the technical feedback, which he had often been accused of lacking, that he didn't understand the technical side or couldn't set up a car -- that also turned out to be incorrect."
Following the confirmation of Tsunoda's promotion he thanked his former team who he has been with for the entirety of his F1 career.
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In a video message posted to the official Racing Bulls Twitter account, Tsunoda said: "Hey guys, Yuki here. I just wanted to say a massive thank you to the team, and to the amazing VCARB fans for such an amazing ride, and so many special memories.
"I'm staying in the Red Bull family, so I won't be far. I'll see you guys around the paddock."