In a completely unexpected twist, Japanese driver Yuki Tsunoda has rocked the Formula 1 paddock by filing a formal complaint against Red Bull for pay discrimination. The young driver claims to have received $1 million less than his teammate Liam Lawson, despite having more experience and comparable results. But that wasn’t all. In a move that has left motorsport fans speechless, Tsunoda decided to publicly reveal the current salary of three-time world champion Max Verstappen.
A complaint that exposes the cracks in the system
Tsunoda, a driver for the Visa Cash App RB team (formerly AlphaTauri), didn’t remain silent. Sources close to the Japanese driver claim that, after multiple attempts at internal dialogue with Red Bull management, he decided to take legal action after discovering that his salary was significantly lower than that of Liam Lawson, a reserve driver with much less track mileage.
“It’s not just about money, it’s about respect. I’m tired of being seen as a second-rate driver just because I’m quiet or Asian,” Tsunoda reportedly said privately, according to leaks on social media.
The news exploded in sports forums and media, sparking a heated debate about pay equity within motorsports , especially in teams with hierarchical structures like Red Bull.
How much does Max Verstappen really earn?
But the real shock came when Tsunoda decided to reveal Max Verstappen’s million-dollar salary , something usually kept secret. According to the Japanese driver’s statements, the Dutch champion would be receiving around $55 million per season , not including performance bonuses or advertising deals.
This figure, while not surprising to some, has caused a stir on social media, especially among fans who criticize the huge pay gap between regular drivers and those fighting to stay on the grid.
Widespread discontent within Red Bull?
The most worrying thing for the Austrian team is that this episode might not be an isolated incident . It’s rumored that other members of the junior team are also preparing similar complaints, feeling marginalized compared to figures like Verstappen or Sergio “Checo” Pérez.
In fact, some analysts suggest that Red Bull has fallen into an elitist management model , where only two or three names are actually invested in, leaving the others as mere spare parts.
Community and social media reactions
Social media exploded after the news broke. On X (formerly Twitter), the hashtag #JusticeForTsunoda began trending within hours. Some fans praised him for his bravery, while others questioned his decision to expose internal matters publicly.
Even figures like Nico Rosberg and Romain Grosjean have come out to comment on the situation, calling for more salary transparency in Formula 1.
What does Red Bull say?
Red Bull has not yet issued an official statement. However, Christian Horner was approached by reporters in the Suzuka paddock and simply said:
“I have no comment for now, but when the time comes, we will give our version.”
This has generated even more speculation. Will Red Bull try to silence Tsunoda? Will there be retaliation?
What’s next for Tsunoda?
Tsunoda’s future in F1 hangs in the balance. While he has demonstrated talent, many wonder whether this act of rebellion will close doors or open a new era in the driver-team relationship.
Whatever the outcome, Yuki Tsunoda has started a necessary conversation within modern motorsport. In a sport where speed is paramount, fairness and equity must also have a place on the grid.
