Sergio Perez has reportedly been dropped by Red Bull, with Liam Lawson set to partner Max Verstappen for the 2025 season.

According to Sky Germany, the decision has been made to part ways with Perez, with Lawson preferred to Yuki Tsunoda, despite the Japanese racer impressing in the post-season test in Abu Dhabi. Official confirmation of the move is expected later on Tuesday.

Perez scored just one top-nine finish in the final eight races of the campaign, labouring to a P8 Drivers' Championship finish, 285 points behind team-mate and world champion Verstappen.

Such minimal points returns eventually cost Red Bull a shot at defending their Constructors' Championship title, and after a post-season review with shareholders, the decision has reportedly been made to drop the Mexican racer and hand Lawson a remarkable opportunity.

The New Zealander now finds himself in an unusual position. Lawson has started just 12 Grands Prix during his blossoming F1 career and must now do what Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon couldn't in matching up against Red Bull's most successful driver.

This will be a hammer blow to Tsunoda, who has been overlooked despite dominating against Nyck de Vries and Daniel Ricciardo, and out-qualifying Lawson 6-0 in 2024.

“I think the chances are 50-50," he said after the post-season test. "Of course, I’d be happiest if I could drive for Red Bull, but I’m incredibly grateful for all the support I’m receiving from everyone in this current situation.

“Regardless of which team I’m with, what I need to do remains the same. It’s not just about Red Bull. For all we know, VCARB might surpass them in development. It’s not like it absolutely has to be Red Bull.

“I don’t know what’s going to happen, but I just want to perform well and score points. Standing on the podium at Suzuka would be the ultimate dream. But, to achieve that, I want to help build a better car and a better team someday. Until that time comes, I hope everyone can be patient.”