Yuki Tsunoda is not done with Formula 1 yet. The 25-year-old Japanese driver, following a difficult 2025 season with Red Bull, was sidelined by the Milton Keynes team at the end of the World Championship, being reassigned to the role of third driver. Similar to what happened with Alex Albon in 2021, his primary responsibilities will focus on simulator work and being available for the show events that Red Bull organizes around the world.
However, Yuki Tsunoda will still get the chance to take to the track on certain race weekends. Racing Bulls team principal Alan Permane revealed to journalists during the recent Bahrain testing that the former teammate of Max Verstappen will be deployed by the Faenza-based team for selected FP1 sessions during the 2026 season. The objective is likely to ensure the best possible correlation between simulator data and on-track feedback.
Permane praises Tsunoda
Permane commented, “It’s fantastic to still have Yuki in the family – he’s been part of this team for a long time. It’s positive that he remains in the paddock. His contribution will be very valuable and will help us significantly with the simulator. He will take part in some Friday sessions,” confirming that Yuki Tsunoda will return to the wheel of a Red Bull on occasion. “I don’t know if it will be with both cars or just ours, but he will be present in selected FP1 sessions. Most of his work will still consist of supporting us with the simulator. It’s really fantastic for us to have someone of his caliber helping during the race weekend.”
This strategic move by Racing Bulls highlights the growing importance of experienced reserve drivers in the modern era of limited testing. By keeping Yuki Tsunoda sharp in the VCARB 03 during Free Practice 1, the team ensures they have a driver ready to deliver precise data that bridges the gap between digital simulations and the physical demands of the 2026 power units.
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