Red Bull may not be taking Yuki Tsunoda seriously just yet, but the team certainly does.
Tsunoda arrived in F1 in 2021 at just 20 years old, quickly gaining attention for his speed tempered with occasional volatility, famously highlighted by his passionate radio messages. Despite initial challenges adapting to the pinnacle of motorsport, both his team and Honda supporters stood by him as he matured into a more consistent and polished driver.
In 2023, despite driving an underperforming car, Tsunoda delivered his strongest season to date, validating the belief of outgoing team principal Franz Tost that young drivers typically need three seasons to acclimate fully to F1. Transitioning from AlphaTauri to RB or VCARB, as the team evolved, Tsunoda, now 24, has recently showcased a new level of performance, often outpacing his more experienced teammate Daniel Ricciardo, an eight-time Grand Prix winner.
While Tsunoda has consistently reached Q3 and scored points in several races this season, his occasional setbacks, like a notable incident in the Canadian Grand Prix, are becoming increasingly rare. Despite these strides, a promotion to Red Bull’s main team has not materialized, especially with Sergio Perez recently extending his contract for two years. This situation suggests that Tsunoda’s career progression is currently hindered by factors beyond his control.
Although Red Bull’s Christian Horner remains cautious about Tsunoda’s ability to partner effectively with Max Verstappen, team advisor Helmut Marko has acknowledged Tsunoda’s late but significant development, hinting at future opportunities depending on continued performance.
Tsunoda, while expressing some frustration over Perez’s contract renewal, remains committed to Red Bull and is focused on demonstrating further progress and potential. With his fate now secured at RB for 2025, Tsunoda’s future prospects, including possible moves to other teams like Audi or Aston Martin, seem contingent upon maintaining his upward trajectory within the competitive midfield.
As RB continues to evolve beyond its junior team identity, supported by new sponsors and a refined driver philosophy, Tsunoda’s role as a cornerstone of their project underscores his growing stature in the sport. His journey from a promising but erratic newcomer to a seasoned and respected racer signifies a compelling narrative within the Formula 1 community.
