Yuki Tsunoda, the prodigious talent of Racing Bulls, has recently shaken up his management team following his bypass for the coveted 2025 Red Bull Formula 1 seat. The seat, left vacant by Sergio Perez, was filled by Tsunoda’s teammate, Liam Lawson, leaving the Japanese racer seeking a change in direction.
Tsunoda, who was managed by Mario Miyakawa and Luis Alvarez until the close of the 2024 season, has since parted ways with the duo. The 24-year-old champion’s decision came after being sidelined for the Red Bull seat, marking a notable shift in his career trajectory.
Bringing a fresh perspective into Tsunoda’s career is Diego Menchaca, a former competitor in European single-seaters, including the GP3 Series, now known as Formula 3. Menchaca, who also had a successful stint in sportscars, will focus solely on managing Tsunoda and budding Formula 3 sensation Noah Stromsted in 2025.
Tsunoda expressed his contentment with the new arrangement, stating, “I’m really happy with Diego, he’s motivated, definitely. Once we decided to work together, he immediately went to Helmut’s [Marko, Red Bull advisor] office to build a relationship. That kind of effort, I really appreciate – and obviously, Helmut did too. They already have a good relationship, which is a good start.”
However, the young driver is acutely aware that good rapport off the track must translate into exceptional performance on it. “But in the end, the most important thing is to perform on track, which will make Diego’s life easier,” he added.
Tsunoda’s 2024 F1 season was marked by a significant achievement – his highest finish to date in the Drivers’ Standings at the 12th spot. However, his future in F1 beyond 2025 remains uncertain. Racing Bulls’ head honcho, Laurent Mekies, commended Tsunoda’s improvements in 2024 and anticipates further progress this season.
Tsunoda’s journey with the Faenza-based outfit has seen him through its various name changes – from AlphaTauri to RB, and now Racing Bulls, in 2025. Yet, despite outperforming fellow racers like Nyck de Vries, Daniel Ricciardo, and Lawson, Tsunoda has never been seriously considered for a leading team position.
The upcoming season could prove crucial for the Sagamihara-born driver. He may need to outmaneuver rookie Hadjar to secure his place within the Red Bull family. Following Lawson’s appointment as Max Verstappen’s partner for 2025, Christian Horner, the team’s principal, questioned the feasibility of retaining Tsunoda without a clear path to promotion.
As the 2025 season looms, the stakes are high for Tsunoda. His prospects for 2026 may be limited if he fails to secure a seat within the F1 family. However, if the past is any indication, this talented driver is no stranger to overcoming obstacles and exceeding expectations. Tsunoda’s next move on this high-speed chessboard that is F1 racing is eagerly awaited.
