Yuki Tsunoda took to the track in a Red Bull RB20 for the first time during the post-season Formula 1 test in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant opportunity to showcase his potential for a seat at the senior team. This comes amid increasing speculation that Sergio Perez may be dropped from the Red Bull Racing lineup for 2025.
While Tsunoda’s RB teammate Liam Lawson is widely regarded as the leading candidate to replace Perez, the Japanese driver has expressed hope that his performance in this test could bolster his chances of stepping up.
Tsunoda’s Excitement and Determination
Speaking ahead of the test, Tsunoda emphasized the importance of the opportunity:
“It’s the first time I’m driving a different car, and it’s still in a similar group, but the car will be much different. I’m excited, obviously I’ll enjoy it, but at the same time, I’m fully focused.”
He acknowledged the challenge of adapting to a new machine but remained optimistic about impressing Red Bull’s decision-makers:
“It’s good to have something to look forward to after a disappointing race in Abu Dhabi. I hope I can give them feedback they can benefit from. Even if I didn’t get the best performance or run plan, I can do other things that maybe will impress them.”
Performance in the Post-Season Test
Tsunoda completed 75 laps during the morning session, clocking a best time of 1:25.568s, which placed him 11th on the timesheets. While the focus was on testing Pirelli’s 2025 prototype tyres, the mileage in the RB20 offered Tsunoda valuable experience and a chance to adapt to the different characteristics of Red Bull’s championship-winning car.
Red Bull’s testing program also included a rookie driver, as regulations mandate that teams must run a young talent alongside their primary testing efforts. Isack Hadjar, a rising star within the Red Bull Junior Team, shared duties by piloting the second RB20 on 2024-spec tyres.
A Pivotal Moment for Tsunoda
This test could serve as a pivotal moment for Tsunoda, who has delivered standout performances throughout 2024 but remains in the shadow of Lawson’s rapid rise and Perez’s uncertain status. Reflecting on his readiness, Tsunoda highlighted the significance of taking this opportunity to prove his value:
“I want to do what they asked with 100 per cent performance. I’ve got to be patient and not force things, but I’m confident that I can show them what I’m capable of.”
The Bigger Picture
The future lineup at Red Bull Racing hinges on several factors. If Perez is indeed replaced, Lawson is expected to step into the senior team, leaving a potential opening for Hadjar to join RB alongside Tsunoda. However, Tsunoda’s solid test performance and dedication could yet make a strong case for his promotion to the senior team.
With Red Bull poised to finalize its 2025 driver lineup soon, the outcome of Tsunoda’s Abu Dhabi test could play a decisive role in shaping the next chapter of his F1 career.
