What does the future hold for Yuki Tsunoda? After four seasons with Visa Cash App RB, the Japanese driver has not yet had the opportunity to make the big leap in Red Bull. Now, With the arrival of Liam Lawson in place of Daniel Ricciardo, the pressure on Tsunoda is even higher. Lawson immediately impressed in his return to Formula 1, scoring important points and drawing praise from Christian Horner and Helmut Marko. With Red Bull looking for potential substitute for Sergio Perez, the competition between the two drivers is getting tighter and tighter, and Tsunoda knows he has to prove he is up to the task for a possible move to the main team.
Tsunoda and Lawson, a seat for two
With Lawson making an immediate impression upon his return, Tsunoda found himself faced with an unexpected challenge. “I need improvement, Lawson pushes me to do more,” Tsunoda admitted, aware that his seat is no longer so safe. “I need to take a step forward as a driver and improve my responsibility and leadership. That’s something I’m working on intensely.” The Japanese knows he has experience on his side, but with Lawson having shone over the Austin weekend, Tsunoda cannot afford to make any missteps.
Austin Race: Tsunoda Struggles
The United States Grand Prix was not an easy weekend for Tsunoda. The Japanese rider struggled to find the right pace in the race, while Lawson surprised everyone with a top 10 performance, finishing ninth and earning valuable points from the back of the grid.. While Tsunoda failed to find the right rhythm, Lawson showed that, despite the penalty, he can fight for important positions, putting further pressure on his teammate.
Honda's Role and the Uncertain Future
Behind the scenes, Honda is pushing hard to secure Tsunoda's future at Red BullThe Japanese manufacturer, still linked to the team through HRC, sees Tsunoda as a talented rider who deserves a chance with the main team. “We want Yuki to have the chance to show his true potential,” said Koji Watanabe, president of Honda's racing division. Despite the support of the Japanese giant, Helmut Marko stressed that the final decision will be up to Red Bull, leaving the door open to several candidates, including Lawson himself.
A possible scenario for Tsunoda is represented by the post-season testing in Abu Dhabi, where he could finally get the opportunity to drive a Red Bull. Helmut Marko confirmed that there are plans to run Tsunoda in the RB20 during these tests, a vital chance for the Japanese to prove he is ready for a potential move to Red Bull. However, the competition is fierce, with young talents such as Liam Lawson and Isack Hadjar ready to compete for the same seat.
