Visa Cash App RB driver Yuki Tsunoda is navigating an anxious off-season as Red Bull Racing deliberates over its 2025 driver line-up. With Sergio Pérez facing mounting pressure to retain his seat, Tsunoda is vying for a promotion alongside his teammate Liam Lawson, who has also impressed Red Bull management.
In a candid interview at a Honda event, Tsunoda revealed his odds of landing the coveted Red Bull seat: a balanced “50-50.” However, the Japanese driver also acknowledged that Red Bull may not necessarily be the best fit for him long-term, particularly as the team’s partnership with Honda winds down at the end of 2025.
Tsunoda’s Thoughts on the Red Bull Opportunity
Tsunoda expressed gratitude for his current situation but remained pragmatic about the future. Speaking about his chances, he said:
“I think the chances are 50-50. Of course, I’d be happiest if I could drive for Red Bull, but I’m incredibly grateful for all the support I’m receiving from everyone in this current situation. Regardless of which team I’m with, what I need to do remains the same.”
While driving for Red Bull is undoubtedly the pinnacle of the Red Bull program, Tsunoda hinted at loyalty to Visa Cash App Racing Bulls (VCARB), suggesting their development could outpace Red Bull in the future:
“For all we know, VCARB might surpass them in development. It’s not like it absolutely has to be Red Bull. I just want to perform well and score points. Standing on the podium at Suzuka would be the ultimate dream.”
The Lawson Factor: A Threat to Tsunoda’s Promotion?
Liam Lawson, who stepped into Formula 1 in 2023 and secured his seat at VCARB in 2024, has emerged as the leading contender for Pérez’s seat. Both Christian Horner and Helmut Marko have reportedly been impressed by Lawson’s consistency, maturity, and adaptability. Lawson’s edge lies in the absence of question marks about his loyalty to Red Bull’s long-term plans, as opposed to Tsunoda’s ties to Honda, which will become Aston Martin’s exclusive engine supplier starting in 2026.
While Tsunoda has improved significantly in 2024, even outperforming Daniel Ricciardo during the Australian’s brief return to the grid, Red Bull remains concerned about Tsunoda’s consistency and potential to thrive in a top-tier team alongside Max Verstappen.
Red Bull’s Decision Looms
Helmut Marko has stated that a decision on Red Bull’s 2025 line-up is imminent. If Tsunoda misses out, his position with VCARB seems secure for now, but the question of Honda’s exit looms large. Red Bull may not want to invest in a driver with clear ties to their soon-to-be rival engine supplier.
For Pérez, a reprieve looks increasingly unlikely unless Red Bull believes he can recapture the form that once made him a valuable wingman to Verstappen. His struggles with consistency and pace in 2024 have left the team considering fresh talent to bring stability and competitiveness to their second seat.
What’s Next for Tsunoda?
Should he remain with VCARB, Tsunoda could still carve out a strong career as the team develops. However, his chance to ascend to Red Bull might never come again. His measured and mature response to the situation reflects his growth as a driver:
“Until that time comes, I hope everyone can be patient. I’ll keep focusing on what I can control and contribute to building something stronger for the future.”
For now, the spotlight remains on Red Bull’s impending decision. Whether it’s Tsunoda, Lawson, or even Ricciardo, the choice will significantly shape the trajectory of the team—and Tsunoda’s career—for years to come.