Yuki Tsunoda’s path to a potential seat at Red Bull Racing appears to be narrowing, as the team reportedly favors Liam Lawson to partner Max Verstappen for the 2025 Formula 1 season. This decision is set to follow a pivotal shareholders’ meeting after the Abu Dhabi season finale, which will determine Sergio Perez’s future and finalize Red Bull’s driver line-up.
The Perez Conundrum
Red Bull reportedly intends to part ways with Perez, despite a contract extension signed earlier this year. The team is encouraging Perez to retire on his own terms but is prepared to buy out his deal if necessary. The move underscores Red Bull’s priority of ensuring optimal performance alongside Verstappen, who has dominated the team dynamic since 2021.
Lawson vs. Tsunoda: A Tough Decision
Liam Lawson, the promising rookie who stepped into the spotlight as a substitute for Daniel Ricciardo, has made a strong impression with consistent performances and adaptability. Red Bull sees Lawson as a long-term investment, believing he has the temperament and technical skills to thrive in the high-pressure environment of partnering Verstappen.
Conversely, Tsunoda, who has arguably been the fastest non-Verstappen Red Bull driver over the last two seasons, faces skepticism from within the organization. Despite showing significant improvement since his rookie year, including outpacing teammates like Nyck de Vries and Ricciardo, Tsunoda’s reputation for emotional outbursts and occasional mistakes under pressure works against him.
Helmut Marko stated: “The pressure of being Max’s team-mate is probably the hardest job in Formula 1.”
This sentiment reflects Red Bull’s reservations about Tsunoda’s ability to consistently perform at the level required alongside Verstappen.
Honda’s Role and Tsunoda’s Future
Tsunoda’s rise to F1 was heavily backed by Honda, which pushed for his initial seat at AlphaTauri (now VCARB). While Honda has advocated for more opportunities for Tsunoda within Red Bull, the engine manufacturer’s upcoming move to Aston Martin in 2026 may have diminished Red Bull’s interest in long-term investment in the Japanese driver.
If Tsunoda is overlooked for the Red Bull Racing seat, his future within the organization becomes uncertain. With Honda’s influence shifting to Aston Martin and Red Bull likely favoring Lawson for its senior team, Tsunoda may find himself exploring options outside the Red Bull ecosystem after 2025.
What’s Next for Tsunoda?
Should Tsunoda part ways with Red Bull, his options in F1 remain limited but not nonexistent. Haas previously expressed interest in him, and other midfield teams may value his speed and experience. Aston Martin, with its partnership with Honda, could also be a future destination, though Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll currently occupy its seats.
A Painful Snub?
For Tsunoda, the prospect of being passed over for Lawson despite consistently strong performances highlights the often brutal realities of F1. While Tsunoda’s speed is undeniable, Red Bull’s doubts about his temperament, technical feedback, and ability to handle the pressure of competing alongside Verstappen may ultimately cost him the opportunity.
As Red Bull prepares for a post-Perez era, the decision between Lawson and Tsunoda will shape not only the team’s future but also the trajectory of two talented drivers vying for a shot at the pinnacle of motorsport.
