Tsunoda in print: does he fight for his Formula 1 future at Red Bull?

Tsunoda in print: does he fight for his Formula 1 future at Red Bull?

Mexiko, Mexiko - The Formula 1 season 2025 is just around the corner, and the tension in the paddock is already noticeable. While new teams and drivers are forming, there is a challenge, especially for Yuki Tsunoda from Alphatauri: he has to worry about his position in the Red Bull team. Helmut Marko, Red Bull's motorsport consultant, has made it clear that the coming months will be decisive for Tsunoda's future in Formula 1.

Despite his previous experience, the 24-year-old has to assert himself against his rookie teammate Isack Hadjar. This is particularly critical because Red Bull recently appointed Liam Lawson as the new partner of Max Verstappen, which exerts additional pressure on tsunoda. Marko emphasizes that Tsunoda has to motivate himself to assert himself in this hard competition. "If he doesn't get better, he will no longer have a place in Formula 1," says Marko.

The pressure grows

In fact, Tsunoda has been criticized since his career in the sister team of Red Bull, who is now operating as a racing Bulls. Its performance and also its perceived mental stability are put to the test. While Tsunoda exceeded Hadjar in qualification and points in the point ranking last season, his repeated radio outbursts and accidents in Mexico make life difficult for him.

In the eyes of Marko, this was a crucial weakness compared to Lawson, whose achievements the teams convinced. Marko warned: If the pressure on Tsunoda does not fall off or continue to go with listlessness, this could mean his immediate withdrawal from Formula 1. The future of Honda

In addition, the relationship between Alphatauri and Honda will change from 2026, since the Japanese automobile manufacturer will set his support for Red Bull. However, Honda remains in Formula 1 and will then work with Aston Martin. Tsunoda is faced with the view that even if he leaves Red Bull, he could possibly accommodate Aston Martin, provided that the team constellation changes. Fernando Alonso continues to plan to stay active, and Lance Stroll receives support from his father, which reduces the opportunities for tsunoda.

Koji Watanabe, President of Honda Racing Corporation, also made it clear that Tsunoda is no longer an official Honda driver, but is still supported by the brand. He emphasizes the need that Tsunoda has to act independently, since Honda cannot make resources available indefinitely.

The uncertainties about Tsunoda's career are an example of the resistance in the paddock. Numerous driver change in the history of Formula 1 show how quickly perspectives can change - and how unpredictable the dynamics in driver management are.

The coming season will show whether Tsunoda can accept the challenge and assert itself as a stable driver in competition. The eyes are aimed at him, both within the team as well as fans and critics alike.