Yuki Tsunoda, Japanese Formula 1 driver, may continue to receive support from Honda even after the manufacturer’s partnership with Red Bull teams ends in 2025. Honda initially expressed a desire to leave F1, but changed its decision and will supply engines to Aston Martin from 2026. As a result, Tsunoda will no longer be directly associated with Honda in terms of performance. However, Honda hopes that Tsunoda, who entered F1 in 2021 with the brand’s support, can achieve his goal of being promoted to the Red Bull main team. Honda Racing CEO Koji Watanabe stated that it would be a great story if Tsunoda could first excel at RB and then move up to Red Bull. Even after Honda’s departure, the company intends to closely monitor Tsunoda’s progress and hopes he becomes a top driver in Formula 1.
Tsunoda has been considered a long-term option for Aston Martin. Martin Whitmarsh, CEO of the Silverstone-based team, acknowledged that Tsunoda is being considered. However, Fernando Alonso recently signed a contract extension and negotiations with Lance Stroll are expected to begin soon, according to Aston Martin team principal Mike Krack. Watanabe mentioned that, while Alonso’s position is confirmed, he has not received any confirmation about Stroll. He believes there is a possibility of Tsunoda joining Aston Martin, although nothing is certain at this time.
Despite the imminent separation of Honda from Red Bull, Watanabe stated that maintaining a connection with Tsunoda will not be a challenge. He mentioned that they will need to assess the situation once Honda’s relationship with Aston Martin begins. However, Watanabe expressed confidence in their ability to support Tsunoda in becoming a top driver. When asked about the possibility of Tsunoda representing a Honda customer team, Watanabe stated that, while there may be future possibilities, there are currently no plans to expand their customer team.
In summary, Honda is prepared to continue supporting Yuki Tsunoda’s career in Formula 1 even after the end of the partnership with Red Bull. They hope that Tsunoda can achieve his goal of joining the Red Bull main team. Tsunoda is also being considered as a long-term option for Aston Martin, although the team’s lineup is not yet confirmed. Despite the separation from Red Bull, Honda believes it will not be difficult to maintain ties with Tsunoda and will continue to support his development as a top driver. Currently, there are no plans to expand Honda’s customer team.
