Last call for Yuki Tsunoda: Red Bull to decide his future after the Mexican Grand Prix. Red Bull will decide who partners Max Verstappen in 2026 after the Mexican GP.

Final confirmations at Mercedes and a shifting driver market

Mercedes has officially confirmed its driver lineup for 2026, securing George Russell alongside young Italian prospect Kimi Antonelli. The announcement, long anticipated, further narrows the options available for several drivers still uncertain about their futures. With two top seats now locked in, the driver market is becoming clearer, leaving many wondering what will happen next at Red Bull and how it will affect its pool of affiliated drivers.

Red Bull’s choice to come after Austin and Mexico

Helmut Marko revealed that Red Bull will decide who will partner Max Verstappen for the 2026 Formula 1 season after the Mexican Grand Prix. The two consecutive races in Austin and Mexico City will therefore be decisive for Yuki Tsunoda, who must prove that he deserves the team’s trust. “He knows he has to deliver strong results,” Marko stated, making it clear that the Japanese driver is under intense pressure.

Tsunoda under scrutiny as Hadjar gains momentum

While Yuki Tsunoda’s future remains uncertain, the spotlight is increasingly turning toward Isack Hadjar. According to Helmut Marko, the young French driver “has managed to make a name for himself and is enjoying the moment.” Isack Hadjar has been impressing within Red Bull’s driver development program, and even if he does not earn promotion to the senior team, he appears set to remain in Formula 1 with Racing Bulls.

For Yuki Tsunoda, however, the situation is much more delicate. A potential exit from the Red Bull organization could mean the end of his Formula 1 career. For the Japanese driver, the next two races are not just opportunities to shine — they represent a crucial turning point that could define his entire future in the sport.