Christian Horner Hints at Yuki Tsunoda’s Departure, Raising Hopes for Franco Colapinto in F1
The Formula 1 grid for 2025 seemed firmly set, but Red Bull team principal Christian Horner’s unexpected comments about Yuki Tsunoda’s future could open a surprising new opportunity for rising star Franco Colapinto.
Horner’s remarks come on the heels of Liam Lawson being selected to replace Sergio Pérez at Red Bull Racing, with Isack Hadjar promoted from Formula 2 to join Racing Bulls alongside Tsunoda. While the seats appear locked in, Horner’s candid acknowledgment of potentially letting Tsunoda go has reignited speculation about the Japanese driver’s future and the possibility of an open seat in the Red Bull ecosystem.
Horner’s Comments on Yuki Tsunoda: A Red Bull Shakeup?
In a statement that caught the motorsport world off guard, Horner suggested that retaining Tsunoda at Racing Bulls indefinitely may not be sustainable:
“If we can’t provide an opportunity for Yuki—honestly, by this year [2025]—does it make sense to keep him? You can’t have a driver in the support team for five years. At some point, you either let them go or look for something different,” he told The Race.
These remarks come after Tsunoda expressed frustration at being passed over for a Red Bull Racing seat, which went to 22-year-old Lawson after just 11 F1 starts. Despite Tsunoda’s consistent performances since debuting in F1 with AlphaTauri in 2021, Red Bull’s preference for Lawson reflects the team’s long-term strategy and confidence in younger talent.

Franco Colapinto: A Wild Card in the Red Bull Equation?
Could Tsunoda’s potential departure open the door for Franco Colapinto? The Argentine driver has impressed with his performances and is currently a reserve driver for Williams, whose 2025 lineup features Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz Jr. Horner’s remarks, combined with Tsunoda’s uncertain future, suggest a sliver of hope for Colapinto to join the Red Bull family.
Horner’s comments also highlight Red Bull’s evolving dynamics, particularly with the end of its partnership with Honda in 2025. As Honda transitions to supplying engines for Aston Martin in 2026, the automaker’s influence on Red Bull’s driver lineup is expected to wane, potentially diminishing Tsunoda’s foothold in the team.

Tsunoda’s Challenges and Red Bull’s Next Moves
Tsunoda’s career trajectory, which began with his entry into the Red Bull Junior Team in 2019, has seen him rise steadily through the ranks. However, Horner’s decision to prioritize Lawson underscores the team’s commitment to performance and future potential.
“The decision between Lawson and Tsunoda was incredibly close,” Horner explained. “But Lawson’s pace in the races he participated in was slightly better, and his potential to improve after just 11 grands prix was a decisive factor.”
Meanwhile, reports indicate other teams, such as Sauber and Haas, had previously shown interest in Tsunoda, though their 2025 rosters are now finalized. With Cadillac set to join F1 in 2026, new opportunities could emerge, but for now, Tsunoda’s position remains under scrutiny.
What’s Next for Franco Colapinto?
For Franco Colapinto, Horner’s comments signal a potential breakthrough in a highly competitive F1 landscape. Colapinto, who impressed with his performances in junior categories, has become a standout prospect for several teams. While Williams appears reluctant to let him go, his consistent push for an F1 seat keeps him in contention.
“It’s not in my hands,” Colapinto told Infobae. “The situation is complex, and my managers are working hard, but ultimately, it’s someone else’s decision. All I can do is stay prepared for any opportunity that comes my way.”
A Grid in Flux: What 2025 Could Hold
As the 2025 Formula 1 season approaches, Red Bull’s driver choices continue to highlight their commitment to cultivating new talent. With Lawson and Hadjar stepping into critical roles, and Tsunoda’s future uncertain, the potential for further shakeups remains high.
For Colapinto, patience and readiness will be key as he navigates the unpredictable nature of F1. Whether through a Red Bull opening or another opportunity, his determination to make an impact ensures he’ll remain a name to watch in the seasons to come.