Liam Lawson has been axed as Red Bull’s No 2 driver, the team have confirmed this morning.

Yuki Tsunoda is promoted to drive in Lawson’s place at the Japanese Grand Prix, his home race, a week on Sunday, alongside world champion Max Verstappen.

Christian Horner, team principal and CEO, said: ‘It has been difficult to see Liam struggle with the RB21 at the first two races and as a result we have collectively taken the decision to make an early switch.