Red Bull’s tumultuous 2024 season has put a spotlight on its second seat, with Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) President Koji Watanabe backing Yuki Tsunoda as the prime candidate to replace Sergio Perez in 2025. Following a lackluster campaign, Perez’s position appears increasingly untenable, and Watanabe has made it clear that the Japanese automaker favors their “local hero” for promotion.
“Red Bull’s Struggles Amplify Driver Speculation”
The 2024 campaign saw Red Bull fall short of expectations, losing the Constructors’ Championship and grappling with a mediocre RB20 chassis. Compounding these issues was Sergio Perez’s poor form, with the Mexican driver failing to deliver consistent results, leaving the team vulnerable against a surging McLaren.
Reports suggest Red Bull has already decided to part ways with Perez, with Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson emerging as the top contenders for the coveted second seat alongside Max Verstappen.
“Honda Backs Tsunoda: A Natural Choice?”
Honda, Red Bull’s engine supplier, has thrown its weight behind Tsunoda, citing his growth and consistent performance during his time at AlphaTauri (now Racing Bulls). Watanabe expressed his belief that the 24-year-old has demonstrated enough talent to warrant a promotion.
“The team has every right to decide on the driver, so our opinion is only a recommendation. However, HRC believes that Tsunoda has sufficient capabilities to be promoted to Red Bull, and that he should be one of the candidates,” said Watanabe.
This endorsement aligns with Honda’s longstanding support for Tsunoda, who has been racing in Formula 1 since 2021 and has steadily improved in both speed and racecraft.
“Ex-F1 Driver Echoes Honda’s Sentiment”
Backing Honda’s recommendation is a former F1 driver and current Honda Advisor, who also believes Tsunoda has matured into a driver worthy of Red Bull’s main team.
“I think he has become a very good driver. His current speed is great, and he manages everything well, including his race management and race skills. He has grown tremendously over the years.”
“The Case for Liam Lawson”
While Honda has publicly endorsed Tsunoda, Liam Lawson remains a strong contender. The New Zealander impressed during his stint as Daniel Ricciardo’s replacement at the United States Grand Prix and has consistently demonstrated potential at AlphaTauri. Red Bull’s history of nurturing young talent could weigh in Lawson’s favor.
“Impressive Post-Season Testing Adds to Tsunoda’s Case”
Tsunoda’s standout performance during post-season testing in Abu Dhabi has added fuel to the speculation. His impressive lap times showcased his potential to step up to Red Bull and partner Verstappen in 2025, further strengthening Honda’s argument for his promotion.
“Red Bull’s Decision Looms”
As Red Bull prepares for a season of personnel changes, the debate over Perez’s replacement is intensifying. The decision will likely hinge on a delicate balance between Honda’s influence, Tsunoda’s loyalty and growth, and Lawson’s raw potential.
Watanabe summed up Honda’s stance:
“Yuki Tsunoda is capable of being promoted. The final decision, however, lies with Red Bull.”
“The Road Ahead”
With Honda pushing for Tsunoda and Red Bull’s internal dynamics in flux, the 2025 season could mark a pivotal moment for the team. Whether Red Bull opts for Tsunoda’s experience and ties to Honda or Lawson’s rising star, the decision will shape its competitive edge in the seasons to come.
