Since Daniel Ricciardo’s departure in 2018, no teammate has been able to match Max Verstappen’s race pace. Is it a lack of talent? A curse? Or is Verstappen simply performing at a level no one else can reach? The latest driver to struggle in Red Bull’s high-pressure second seat is Kiwi rookie Liam Lawson. Despite his talent, Lawson has failed to meet the expectations of a Red Bull driver, reigniting the debate over why so many promising talents falter in that role. Let’s dive into the so-called ‘Red Bull second seat curse’ and the challenges that continue to hinder Verstappen’s teammates.

A Car Built for Max?

Red Bull is Verstappen’s team—there’s no question about it. His feedback directly influences the car’s development, shaping it around his aggressive driving style. Verstappen thrives in a car with a pointy front end and high-speed cornering capability, but his teammates have often struggled to adapt. Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, and even Sergio Perez all found themselves unable to match the Dutchman’s consistency, leading to speculation that the RB-series cars are simply too tailored to Verstappen’s needs.

Pierre Gasly (2019)

Gasly was promoted from Toro Rosso in 2019 to replace Ricciardo, but he struggled massively while Verstappen delivered podiums. After finishing a distant seventh in the championship—193 points behind Verstappen—Gasly was demoted mid-season back to Toro Rosso.

Alex Albon (2019-2020)

Albon replaced Gasly and initially showed promise, finishing eighth in 2019. However, his sophomore season was underwhelming. While he managed two podiums, he ended the 2020 season in seventh, a massive 109 points behind Verstappen. Red Bull opted to replace him with an experienced driver outside their academy.

Sergio Perez (2021-24)

Perez’s arrival in 2021 brought hope. Unlike his predecessors, he was an F1 veteran and not a Red Bull academy driver. Initially, he provided solid support, most notably in Verstappen’s 2021 title fight. Over three seasons, he improved his championship standings from fourth to second. But cracks began to show in 2023—his qualifying performances faltered, and his inability to back up Verstappen strategically became evident. Despite the dominant RB19, Perez finished 285 points behind Verstappen in 2024, leading Red Bull to replace him with Liam Lawson for the 2025 season.

Liam Lawson (2025)

Lawson entered the season with high expectations but struggled from the outset. In Australia, he qualified P18 and failed to finish the race. In China, his struggles worsened, qualifying P20 for both the sprint and main race, finishing both outside the points. Meanwhile, Verstappen secured a podium in the sprint race and 18 points across the weekend, highlighting the vast performance gap between the two.

The narrative was familiar: a talented driver excelling outside of Red Bull suddenly underperforming in the second seat. Gasly has now flourished at Alpine, Albon is a key figure at Williams, and Perez had been a consistent force at Racing Point. The question remained—was it the car, the environment, or both?

A Bad Look for Red Bull

Red Bull’s ruthless approach to driver management only intensifies the pressure. The team has a history of abrupt mid-season changes, and Helmut Marko’s public criticism does little to instil confidence. Unlike Perez, who had the backing of significant sponsors, Lawson lacked any external security, making him more vulnerable to immediate replacement.

The timing of the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix only worsened the situation for Lawson. With Honda pushing for greater representation at Red Bull, Yuki Tsunoda—who had shown strong performances at VCARB—emerged as a prime candidate to take over. Marko himself praised Tsunoda, stating:

“Yuki is a different Yuki from the years before. He is in the form of his life. Obviously he changed his management. He has a different approach. He’s more mature. It took a while, but now it looks like it’s working.”

On March 27, 2025, Red Bull confirmed Lawson’s demotion to VCARB, with Tsunoda taking his place at Suzuka. This made Lawson the shortest-serving Red Bull driver in history, lasting just two races before being replaced.

🗣️ "Yuki’s experience will prove highly beneficial in helping to develop the current car. We welcome him to the Team and are looking forward to seeing him behind the wheel of the RB21."#F1 || #RedBullRacing

— Oracle Red Bull Racing (@redbullracing) March 27, 2025

While the move benefited Honda and Tsunoda, it did little to help Red Bull’s reputation. Even Verstappen himself expressed frustration over the constant driver changes. This instability raises concerns about Red Bull’s long-term strategy—if no driver can survive alongside Verstappen, what does that mean for the team’s ability to develop future stars?

For Lawson, his focus now shifts to proving himself at VCARB. While this setback could be damaging, his talent remains undeniable. If he can deliver strong performances for the rest of the season, he may yet have a future in F1.

We can confirm that @LiamLawson30 will drive for the Team from the #JapaneseGP 👊#F1 #VCARB

— Visa Cash App Racing Bulls F1 Team (@visacashapprb) March 27, 2025

As Red Bull’s second seat continues to claim talented drivers, one thing is clear—it’s one of the toughest jobs in motorsport. Whether due to an unforgiving car, immense pressure, or internal politics, the role remains a poisoned chalice for anyone not named Max Verstappen.

For now, the curse claims another victim in Liam Lawson. But as the silly season heats up in F1’s 75th year, the question remains: who’s next?

Desi Racing Co is dedicated to bringing the latest updates and insights from the world of motorsport. Whether it’s Formula 1, Formula 2, WEC, MotoGP, Indian motorsports, or other racing series, we’ve got you covered! Stay connected with us for in-depth motorsport coverage. Follow us on Twitter/X, Instagram, and LinkedIn to keep up with the latest motorsport news and updates.

The 2025 Chinese Grand Prix delivered a spectacle packed with drama, redemption, and heartbreak. The Shanghai International Circuit, returning to the F1 calendar with renewed intensity, played host to a weekend that tested the limits of strategy, reliability, and composure. From McLaren’s historic dominance to Ferrari’s crushing disqualification, every corner of the paddock had a story. The rain never arrived, but chaos did — in pit lanes, brake systems, and the stewards’ office. With eight teams scoring points and key contenders faltering under scrutiny, the Chinese Grand Prix reminded the world just how brutal and beautiful Formula 1 can be.

Papaya Perfection: McLaren’s Impeccable Execution

McLaren stole the spotlight with a commanding 1-2 finish, their first in China since 2011 and 50th in team history. Oscar Piastri was clinical from pole, managing a defensive launch into Turn 1 before stretching a lead that only briefly slipped during pit cycles. Despite late-race pressure, he stayed cool.

“It’s been an incredible weekend; the car has been mega the whole time… we’ve secured this result through hard work.”

Teammate Lando Norris fought through a mid-race traffic jam and a heart-stopping late brake issue but brought the car home for P2. “A tough race with tyre management,” Norris admitted, “but the team executed it well.”

Team Principal Andrea Stella praised both drivers: “We were managing an issue towards the end which added some tension, but Lando and the team handled it brilliantly.”

Silver Linings at Mercedes: Russell Leads, Antonelli Learns

George Russell flew the flag for Mercedes, delivering a smooth and strategic drive to finish third — his second podium in as many races. “P3 was the maximum for us today,” he said. “The McLarens were just a little bit too quick.” Russell executed a clever undercut to leapfrog Norris momentarily but ultimately lacked the pace to maintain it.

Russel P3 (Credits: mercedesamgf1)

Rookie teammate Andrea Kimi Antonelli wasn’t as lucky. Floor damage from lap one debris left him fighting the car all race. “I struggled with the rear… it definitely hindered my pace,” he said after finishing eighth. Still, both cars scored points, and Mercedes left Shanghai satisfied with steady momentum.

Red Bull’s Recovery: Verstappen Climbs, Lawson Slips

Max Verstappen endured a sluggish start, dropping places early but clawed back to P4 by race’s end — showing once again his ability to maximize difficult days. Red Bull went aggressive with tyre strategy, and while Verstappen managed his mediums and hards well, he never had the pace to challenge McLaren or Mercedes.

“The beginning, it was not easy,” said Verstappen (Credits: Formula1)

Teammate Liam Lawson, however, struggled. A miscalculated setup and balance issues saw him finish outside the points in 12th. The team acknowledged they were “surprised by the lack of grip” and will be looking to regroup quickly ahead of Japan.

There’s speculation in the paddock about Tsunoda swapping teams with Lawson as early as the Japanese Grand Prix. (Credits:formula1)

Ferrari’s Fall: From Points to Penalty

Ferrari’s day unravelled hours after the checkered flag. Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton were disqualified post-race — Leclerc for an underweight car, and Hamilton for excessive plank wear. On track, both had been competitive, with Leclerc in podium contention and Hamilton salvaging points after a tough qualifying. But the stewards’ rulings erased all gains. “It’s gutting,” a Ferrari spokesperson said. “These weren’t performance-enhancing issues, but the rules are the rules.”

The double DQ cost Ferrari a potential double top-six finish and sent shockwaves through the paddock. Meanwhile, the disqualification handed unexpected points to Haas, Williams, and others.

Midfield Madness: Haas, Williams and Alpine Seize the Shake-Up

Haas turned fortune into results. Esteban Ocon, cool and consistent, finished fifth, while rookie Oliver Bearman brought it home in P8 after Hamilton and Leclerc’s DQs. “A fantastic result for the whole team,” said Haas boss Ayao Komatsu.

Williams had a mixed but encouraging weekend. Albon recovered from a poor start, led briefly during a long first stint, and finished 7th on his birthday after late-race gains and post-race disqualifications. Sainz continued to struggle with pace but his first points for Williams, finishing 10th after disqualifications. Albon praised the team’s progress, saying the points showed “valuable” improvement. Team boss James Vowles credited strong teamwork and backed Sainz to bounce back.

Alpine had a mixed day: Pierre Gasly was disqualified like Leclerc for an underweight car, while Jack Doohan saw points finish slip away due to a five-second penalty for forcing another car off track. The FIA cited “potentially dangerous driving,” bringing Doohan’s total to 5 points — just 7 shy of a race ban. “We’ll regroup, but we’re clearly leaving points on the table,” Alpine admitted. Jack Doohan’s tough weekend in Shanghai got worse post-race, as he was handed 4 penalty points on his super licence.

Points, Pitfalls, and Pain for Aston, Bulls & Sauber

Aston Martin had a bittersweet Sunday. Fernando Alonso was the race’s only retirement, sidelined early by overheating rear brakes. Lance Stroll, however, ran long on hards and was rewarded post-race with P9 after disqualifications. “We just aren’t quick enough,” Stroll admitted, despite battling hard.

Racing Bulls suffered another strategic misfire. Their two-stop gamble backfired in cooler conditions, dropping both cars out of the points. Isack Hadjar finished a close P11, narrowly missing his first F1 point. Yuki Tsunoda’s late front wing failure sealed a forgettable day. “Frustrating,” said Team Principal Laurent Mekies, “but the pace is there.”

Kick Sauber endured a rough opening lap that derailed their race. Nico Hülkenberg picked up floor damage after a wide moment in Turn 3, while rookie Gabriel Bortoleto spun early and spent the race learning the limits. Both cars finished, but out of the points. “Encouraging final stint pace,” said Beat Zehnder, “but still work to do.”

2025 Chinese Grand Prix – 5 Key Highlights

1. Oscar Piastri led McLaren to a dominant 1-2 finish ahead of Lando Norris, marking the team’s 50th one-two and first in China since 2011.
2. Charles Leclerc, Lewis Hamilton, and Pierre Gasly were disqualified post-race, reshuffling the final results and handing unexpected points to several midfield teams.
3. George Russell secured P3 for Mercedes, while Max Verstappen recovered from a poor start to finish fourth; Liam Lawson finished outside the points.
4. Esteban Ocon scored a strong P5 for Haas, Albon finished P7 on his birthday for Williams, and Carlos Sainz took his first points with the team.
5. Alonso retired early due to brake failure, Stroll was promoted to P9, Racing Bulls’ two-stop strategy backfired again, and both Kick Sauber cars finished outside the points after early setbacks.

Next Race

All eyes now turn to Suzuka for the Japanese Grand Prix, where teams will be looking to build momentum or bounce back after Shanghai’s shake-up. The fast, flowing corners of this iconic track demand precision and balance — a true driver’s circuit that often separates the contenders from the midfield. For McLaren, it’s a chance to prove their pace is no fluke. Red Bull and Ferrari will be eager to rebound, especially amid growing speculation of a possible driver swap between Lawson and Tsunoda. With just ten days to reset, the stage is set for another high-stakes showdown in Japan.

Drivers’ Standing

Constructors’ Standings

Desi Racing Co. brings you the latest updates and insights from Formula 1, Formula 2, WEC, MotoGP, Indian motorsports, and more! Stay connected for in-depth motorsport analysis—follow us on Twitter/X, Instagram, and LinkedIn for all the latest news and updates.

The 2025 Formula 1 Chinese Grand Prix marks an exciting return to Shanghai International Circuit, one of the most technically demanding tracks on the calendar. This race is particularly significant as it hosts the first Sprint Race of the season, intensifying the weekend’s schedule and adding an extra layer of unpredictability.

All you need to know for the first #F1Sprint of the season 🙌👇#F1 #ChineseGP pic.twitter.com/VNVGoMWdGl

— Formula 1 (@F1) March 20, 2025

The event comes amid a major technical shake-up as the FIA implements new rear-wing flexibility regulations, which could impact the competitive order. With teams still adapting to the latest car developments and tire strategies, this weekend in China is poised to be a turning point in the season.

Shanghai International Circuit Overview

The Shanghai International Circuit, a 5.451 km Hermann Tilke design, is a demanding mix of long straights, heavy braking zones, and technical corners. The 1.2 km back straight offers prime DRS overtaking, while Turn 1’s spiral and Turn 14’s hairpin test braking precision. Tire wear, especially on the front-left, is key, forcing teams to balance straight-line speed with cornering grip. Past races have seen Hamilton’s 2007 pit lane mistake and Ricciardo’s 2018 charge, and with the first Sprint Race and flexi-wing rule changes, 2025 promises another thriller.

Track layout (Credits: formula1)

Tyre Compounds (Credits: Formula1)

For the 2025 Chinese Grand Prix, Pirelli has selected the C2, C3, and C4 compounds as the hard, medium, and soft tires, respectively. This allocation is one step harder than the selection for the Australian Grand Prix, reflecting Shanghai’s track characteristics. The circuit has been resurfaced recently, which may affect tire performance and grip levels. Additionally, the front-left tire is expected to experience significant stress due to the track layout, necessitating careful management by teams and drivers. With the first Sprint weekend of the season, teams have 12 sets of dry tires—two hard, four medium, and six soft—along with intermediates and full wets. Managing these allocations effectively will be crucial for a successful weekend.​

Technical Update: FIA’s Flexi-Wing Crackdown

The FIA’s new rear-wing flexibility tests could shake up the competitive order. Teams found to be pushing the limits on rear-wing flex could face performance losses or even disqualifications.

McLaren and Ferrari have expressed confidence that the rule change won’t significantly affect them, but Red Bull’s aerodynamic advantage could be tested.

McLaren: Norris and Piastri Enter the Fray

McLaren heads to China with momentum, after Lando Norris’ stunning victory in Australia put him at the top of the championship standings. Oscar Piastri, however, had a more difficult outing, finishing only ninth in his home race.

With Shanghai featuring long straights and a mix of slow-speed corners, McLaren’s aerodynamic efficiency will be tested. Norris, who finished on the podium here last year, is optimistic:

“I’m confident that when we go to China next weekend, we can be very strong because we were strong there last year with not a very good car.”

Switching our focus to the #ChineseGP 👊#McLaren | @OKX

— McLaren (@McLarenF1) March 19, 2025

Mercedes Closing the Gap to the Front

Mercedes arrives in Shanghai looking to build on early-season momentum and further develop their W16 challenger. The first Sprint Race of the year means limited practice time, so the team must adapt quickly to the circuit’s demands.

George Russell, eager to challenge for another strong result, sees the Chinese Grand Prix as a crucial test for Mercedes:

“Shanghai is a demanding track, especially with tire wear and long corners, but we’ve made clear progress with the car. The Sprint format makes things more intense, so we need to maximize every session.”

His teammate, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, faces a new challenge at a circuit he has never raced on before in Formula 1 machinery. Despite this, the young Italian remains focused on learning quickly and delivering a strong result: “Every race is a new learning experience, and I’m excited to take on Shanghai. The long back straight will be key for overtaking, and managing tire degradation will be crucial.”

Team Principal Toto Wolff remains optimistic about Mercedes’ development and feels that they have made a solid step forward. Still being optimistic about unlocking more performance with efficiency due to sprint weekend and less time to fine tune the car.

Verstappen Seeks Redemption in Shanghai

Red Bull enters the Chinese Grand Prix aiming to fine-tune their RB21 after a challenging start to the season. Max Verstappen, a past winner in Shanghai, remains focused on extracting the most from the car in the Sprint weekend’s limited running:

“Shanghai is a fun track with lots of overtaking opportunities, but tire management will be key. We need to be sharp from the first session to get everything right for the weekend.”

Teammate Liam Lawson, still adjusting to the demands of a full-time F1 seat, is excited about his first race at the circuit: “I’ve done plenty of simulator work to prepare, but experiencing the track in real life will be different. It’s going to be a big challenge with just one practice session, but I’m ready for it.”

Hamilton and Leclerc Looking for a Breakthrough

Ferrari approaches the Chinese Grand Prix with determination to improve upon their recent performances. Team Principal Frédéric Vasseur emphasizes the importance of the upcoming race: “It’s good that we are back on track just a few days after racing in Australia, as Shanghai will give us the opportunity to turn the page and move on immediately.” He acknowledges the challenges posed by the Sprint weekend format, which limits free practice time, and underscores the critical role of the team’s preparatory work at the Maranello factory and simulator support during the event. Vasseur adds,

“Charles and Lewis both like the Shanghai track, and we must ensure we do everything we can to allow them to get the most out of the SF-25.”

As Ferrari gears up for the first Sprint weekend of the season, the focus remains on optimizing performance and strategy to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the unique challenges of the Shanghai circuit.

Williams Racing looking to Build-up on Early Success

Williams arrives in Shanghai with growing confidence following a strong Australian Grand Prix, where Alex Albon finished fifth, securing valuable points. Carlos Sainz, in his first season with the team, had a tougher weekend but remains optimistic.

Albon is focused on maintaining momentum: “Australia was a really strong way to start the year with a great result for the team. We need to build on this momentum and pick up where we left off going into China this weekend.”

Meanwhile, Sainz is looking forward to the Sprint format to get his season back on track:
“Australia was a great start to the season for the team, although it proved more challenging for me. We will take all our learnings from Melbourne and focus our attention on China; our first Sprint event of the season and a good opportunity to get my season going.”

Albon seems well-adapted to the car, but Sainz will be keen to bounce back. Both drivers could fight for points if the setup is right.

Aston Martin Navigating Challenges in Shanghai

Aston Martin arrives at the Shanghai International Circuit for the 2025 Chinese Grand Prix, aiming to build on recent performances and address the challenges faced with their AMR25 car. The team acknowledges that while the car performs well in high-speed sections, it struggles in slower corners, as evidenced by a three-tenths deficit in the final sector at Albert Park compared to competitors like Red Bull. ​

Lance Stroll demonstrated resilience in the season opener, securing a sixth-place finish amidst challenging conditions. His ability to capitalize on chaotic races showcases his experience and adaptability, qualities that will be crucial in Shanghai’s demanding environment.​ Meanwhile, Fernando Alonso, reflecting on his enduring competitiveness, stated: He remains optimistic about the team’s potential, emphasizing the need to understand and address the car’s weaknesses.​

“I debuted in 2001, competed in the first GP of China in 2004, and in 2025, I am as fast as in 2004, or even faster.”

Alpine F1 Team: Harnessing Promising Pace

Alpine showed flashes of speed in Australia but failed to convert it into points. Pierre Gasly and Jack Doohan are determined to change that in Shanghai.

Gasly remains optimistic despite the Melbourne result:
“It was disappointing to leave Melbourne without scoring points after showing promising pace across the weekend in a variety of conditions. However, I am pleased with the overall package and am confident heading to Shanghai for the first Sprint weekend of the year.”

For rookie Jack Doohan, this race is special, as he has past success at this track:
“I have fond memories of the circuit from past visits, including a win in Asian F3, and it will be a fun challenge in a Formula One car.”

If Alpine can fine-tune their setup quickly, Gasly could fight for points, while Doohan will focus on gaining experience.

Visa Cash App RB: Embracing the Sprint Challenge

Visa Cash App RB showed strong pace in Melbourne, giving Yuki Tsunoda and rookie Isack Hadjar confidence heading into Shanghai.

Tsunoda is excited about the weekend:
“The Shanghai track is quite unique, I do like it and I feel we can have a strong weekend. Our performance level every time we were on track in Melbourne was very good so if we have a straightforward FP1, picking up where we left off, we can do well.”

Hadjar, still learning in his debut season, sees the Sprint as a valuable opportunity:
“I am still lacking race experience so it’s good that this will be a Sprint weekend, as I will have the short race to get a feel for it before the main one.”

Tsunoda has the pace to challenge for points, while Hadjar will use the weekend to gain experience.

MoneyGram Haas F1 Team: Aiming for a Strong Comeback in Shanghai

After a challenging season opener in Melbourne, MoneyGram Haas F1 Team is focused on leveraging lessons learned as they head to the Shanghai International Circuit for the Chinese Grand Prix. The team is eager to capitalize on the unique opportunities presented by the first Sprint event of the season.​

Esteban Ocon, who has prior experience at Shanghai, including a top 10 finish in 2017, is looking forward to the technical challenges the track offers: “Shanghai is a very interesting track. It has a very technical layout and it’s great to have it back on the calendar.” ​

Rookie Oliver Bearman is eager to make his debut at the Shanghai International Circuit: “I’m very excited to go to China… I’m looking forward to the first Sprint—it’s definitely going to be a challenge as I haven’t driven the track before—but it’s a challenge I’m ready to take on.”

With the Sprint format allowing only a single practice session, the team acknowledges the need for quick adaptation and efficient decision-making to optimize performance throughout the weekend

Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber: Looking for Strong Points Finish in Shanghai

Stake F1 Team KICK Sauber heads to Shanghai aiming to capitalize on their promising start to the season. The first Sprint weekend of the year adds extra intensity, requiring quick adaptability and precise decision-making from both drivers. Nico Hülkenberg, who secured the team’s first points in Australia, is optimistic:

“Starting the season with points in Melbourne was a great result for the team, giving us positive momentum heading into China. Sprint race weekends bring an added level of intensity, so we need to be sharp from the start.”

His teammate, Gabriel Bortoleto, will face another steep learning curve as he makes his Shanghai debut in F1 machinery. The Brazilian rookie is embracing the challenge:
“Every new track in F1 is a learning process for me, but I’ve worked hard in the simulator to be ready. The long back straight and slow corners will make this an interesting race, and I’m excited to get on track.”

Weather Forecast

(Credits: Formula1)

​The 2025 Chinese Grand Prix weekend at the Shanghai International Circuit is expected to feature warm and dry conditions:

Friday, March 21:

• Conditions: Sunny with a light breeze; gusts up to 40 kph.
• Temperature: High of 24°C.​
• Chance of Rain: 0%.​

Saturday, March 22:

• Conditions: Sunny with gentle breezes; gusts up to 35-40 kph in the evening.​
• Temperature: High of 25°C.​
• Chance of Rain: 0%.​

Sunday, March 23:

• Conditions: Partly cloudy with a gentle breeze; gusts up to 35 kph.​
• Temperature: High of 27°C.​
• Chance of Rain: 1%

These stable weather conditions should provide teams with consistent track performance throughout the event.

Weekend schedule

📅 | Here is the Weekend Schedule for Formula 1's 🇨🇳 Chinese GP.

Note: All timings mentioned are in 🇮🇳 Indian Standard Time.#F1 #Formula1 #ChineseGP pic.twitter.com/1qJ5i6IILs

— Desi Racing Co (@DesiRacingco) March 19, 2025

Desi Racing Co. brings you the latest updates and insights from Formula 1, Formula 2, WEC, MotoGP, Indian motorsports, and more! Stay connected for in-depth motorsport analysis—follow us on Twitter/X, Instagram, and LinkedIn for all the latest news and updates.