Why Max Verstappen and other F1 drivers are unhappy with Red Bull's recent driver switch

Red Bull's move to relegate Liam Lawson has elicited outrage in the Formula 1 fraternity, with current world champion Max Verstappen and some other drivers not holding back in their condemnation. Pierre Gasly, Nico Hulkenberg, and Oscar Piastri also indirectly gave a thumbs up to Lawson by commenting on a scathing Instagram post questioning the justification of the move.

Red Bull recently confirmed that Liam Lawson will return to Racing Bulls after only two race weekends, paving the way for Yuki Tsunoda to step up. The quick switch has caused criticism, with many believing that Lawson was not allowed to impress.
Former Caterham F1 driver Giedo van der Garde spoke out in an Instagram post, saying that the decision appeared to be more of a ‘panic reaction’ rather than a rational sporting choice. He reasoned that although performance is paramount in F1, the dropping of Lawson after just two races was not fair and might be demoralizing for the youngster.

Max Verstappen, known for his straightforward opinions, indirectly supported van der Garde’s stance by liking the post. His reaction fueled speculation that he is unhappy with the handling of Red Bull’s driver changes.
Pierre Gasly, who himself was dealt a shocking Red Bull demotion in 2019, also liked the post, showing his familiarity with the team's ruthless decision-making. Sauber's Nico Hulkenberg and McLaren's Oscar Piastri also liked, although Piastri went on to delete his interaction with the post. Elsewhere, ex-Red Bull racer Jean-Éric Vergne, a two-time Formula E champion, also demonstrated his solidarity with Lawson by liking the post.

The driver swap provides Yuki Tsunoda with the chance to drive in front of his home fans at Suzuka, a circuit he is familiar with. Lawson, also well-experienced at Suzuka, will need to regroup and try to demonstrate his worth for upcoming F1 opportunities.
Also read: "Ready to go to work": Liam Lawson embraces his new challenge after his swap from Red Bull Racing to Racing Bulls
With drivers quietly expressing their discontent, the furore over Red Bull's ruthless decision-making continues. As the season progresses, everyone will be looking at Lawson to see if he can fight his way back into contention for a full-time F1 seat.