Yuki Tsunoda, the young Japanese talent, might be the first driver to lose his place in F1 this year, according to the predictions of 1997 world champion Jacques Villeneuve. His tenure with Racing Bulls could end due to a series of strategic decisions by the Red Bull team.
Jacques Villeneuve’s Predictions on Yuki Tsunoda
Villeneuve shared his views on Yuki Tsunoda’s future, stating: “Tsunoda will be the first driver to leave the grid.” According to the former champion, Tsunoda’s position in the team is heavily tied to Honda’s support, the team’s engine supplier. With Honda’s current contract expiring at the end of the year, Yuki Tsunoda’s future appears uncertain.
Jacques Villeneuve emphasized that without strong backing from Honda, it is unlikely other teams would be interested in signing him. Yuki Tsunoda’s situation is further complicated by Red Bull’s decision to promote teammate Liam Lawson as Sergio Perez’s replacement for the next season.
Despite having competed in only 11 races in his entire career, Liam Lawson was chosen over the Japanese driver. This has left Yuki Tsunoda facing a fifth year with Red Bull’s sister team, Racing Bulls.
Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal, hinted at the possibility of Yuki Tsunoda leaving the team at the end of 2025. “We are well aware that if we can’t offer Yuki an opportunity this year, does it make sense to keep him?” Horner said. “You can’t have a driver in the support team for five years. Either you let him go, or you look at something different.”
In short, Jacques Villeneuve’s prediction might prove prophetic.
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