Liam Lawson has had an encouraging start to his latest Formula 1 stint with Racing Bulls at the Japanese Grand Prix

SUZUKA, Japan (AP) — No one knows better than Liam Lawson how quickly things can change in results-driven, money-driven Formula 1. Last week the New Zealander was suddenly demoted to Racing Bulls after two poor Formula 1 races with the top team — Red Bull — in Australia and China to start the season.

Red Bull’s decision to demote Liam Lawson has divided opinion at the F1 Japanese Grand Prix. After two poor showings in the Red Bull, Lawson was unceremoniously demoted for this weekend’s round at Suzuka. He has been sent back to the Racing Bulls sister team, with Yuki Tsunoda swapped into the Red Bull alongside Max Verstappen.