Red Bull and Honda: The Future of Yuki Tsunoda in Formula 1

In a significant shakeup for the Formula 1 world, Honda Racing Corporation president Koji Watanabe has confirmed that Yuki Tsunoda’s future with Red Bull lies squarely in his own hands. This announcement comes as Honda embarks on a new project with Aston Martin in the upcoming technical era of F1, starting in 2026.

Tsunoda Promoted to Red Bull’s Main Team

After a long wait, Tsunoda has finally been promoted to Red Bull’s main team for the Japanese Grand Prix. The Milton Keynes-based squad made the bold move of an early driver swap with Racing Bulls following semi-rookie Liam Lawson’s underperformance in the RB21 over the opening two grands prix of the season.

Previously, Tsunoda’s future with Red Bull had seemed uncertain, but he now has an opportunity to prove that he can match teammate Max Verstappen’s performance. The 24-year-old is a product of Honda’s young driver program, but the Japanese manufacturer will not be involved in influencing Tsunoda’s future at Red Bull.

Honda’s New Partnership with Aston Martin

While Honda is starting a new partnership with Aston Martin for F1’s new technical era, Watanabe emphasized that the Japanese manufacturer will not interfere in Tsunoda’s future at Red Bull. “Our partnership with Red Bull will conclude this year,” Watanabe said, “so we have no leverage to pressure Red Bull regarding 2026.

The success of Tsunoda in Red Bull will depend on his own performance and determination. Watanabe also clarified that Honda had played no role in the driver swap with Lawson. “We don’t know when or how Red Bull will make their decision,” he insisted, “so we always communicate that they should choose the best driver.

Tsunoda’s First Race Weekend with Red Bull

Tsunoda’s first race weekend with Red Bull coincides with his and Honda’s home grand prix at Suzuka. Despite potential added pressure, Tsunoda describes this as an ideal situation. “This is the ultimate situation,” he remarked. “Given the seat swap, there’s naturally pressure from Red Bull, and Honda also has strong expectations for their home grand prix.

Tsunoda acknowledges that this is a unique moment where multiple challenges and pressures are coming together. He hopes to enjoy this experience, as he may not get another opportunity like it in the future.