In Formula 1, a driver’s performance is constantly compared to that of their teammate, who, driving the same car, becomes the first rival to beat. This sends a clear message to the team: “I am the lead driver, and you should back me.” Since joining F1 with Red Bull’s junior team, Yuki Tsunoda has faced numerous teammates.
His first was Pierre Gasly, from whom the Japanese driver learned a lot, especially about taking on the responsibility of leading the Faenza-based team. After Gasly’s departure, Tsunoda became the driver who scored the most points for VCARB.
First Nyck De Vries, then Daniel Ricciardo, and finally Liam Lawson: these three drivers were paired with the 24-year-old, who, contrary to some expectations, consistently outperformed them. Coming from Honda and Red Bull’s academy, Tsunoda has always dreamed of joining Milton Keynes, but the Austrian team has never fully trusted him.
Daniel Ricciardo and Liam Lawson: Red Bull’s Preferred Drivers
We already know why Daniel Ricciardo returned to Faenza after his disappointing stint at McLaren. Christian Horner hoped to rediscover the talented and fast driver who once stood toe-to-toe with Max Verstappen during his Red Bull years. However, this return proved underwhelming, with Ricciardo having to relinquish his seat to Lawson ahead of the Austin GP.
As for Lawson, it’s hard to call it a true competition, given that the New Zealander has only 11 races under his belt, spread out over time, making it difficult to evaluate his results. When Lawson was announced at Red Bull, many motorsport commentators criticized Helmut Marko’s decision, arguing that the 2002-born driver lacked the necessary experience for a top-tier team and wasn’t ready to face a four-time world champion.
Logically, Tsunoda would have been the more obvious choice over Lawson, but Marko preferred the New Zealander, believing he has greater potential for development. Additionally, choosing Lawson rewarded the work of the prestigious Red Bull Junior Team, as the Hastings native was a product of this academy. In contrast, Tsunoda was trained by Honda and only joined the Red Bull program after arriving in Europe.
Jacques Villeneuve Predicts Tsunoda’s Final Season in 2025
Jacques Villeneuve has shared his thoughts on Yuki Tsunoda’s situation. According to the former Williams driver, the Japanese racer will be the first to leave the grid after Honda’s partnership with Red Bull ends, with the latter ready to produce its own engines in collaboration with Ford.
“We all know he’s in Formula 1 because of Honda. At some point, that will come to an end. The script seems clear: this will likely be his last season with the Red Bull family,” Villeneuve stated.
“Honestly, I don’t see other teams being interested in him unless Honda pushes for it,” the Canadian added, referencing Aston Martin, which will welcome Honda engineers to Silverstone in 2026. However, a move to Aston Martin currently seems unlikely. Fernando Alonso’s contract ends next season, and Lance Stroll’s future is uncertain due to his unique position as the team owner’s son.
The arrival of an 11th team in 2026 could ensure Tsunoda’s continued presence in Formula 1. General Motors could benefit from this partnership, securing the services of an experienced, young, and fast driver.
Is Yuki Tsunoda Destined to Remain Outside Top Teams?
Despite consistently outperforming Red Bull’s preferred drivers, such as Ricciardo and Lawson, Yuki Tsunoda’s F1 future remains uncertain. His speed and determination don’t seem enough to secure a seat in a top-tier team. The end of the Honda-Red Bull partnership leaves the Japanese driver with limited prospects.
While Tsunoda has achieved commendable results in an environment that never fully supported him, he appears destined to remain a secondary figure in the paddock. Rumors of a potential move to Aston Martin lack substance, and with the changes expected in 2026, including new teams and dynamics, Tsunoda may find himself grappling with circumstances beyond his control.
Unless an unexpected opportunity arises, Tsunoda’s career risks being curtailed at just 24 years old. He could become yet another victim of the political decisions and dynamics of a Formula 1 world where speed alone isn’t always enough to secure a place as a true protagonist.
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