In a stunning revelation, Yuki Tsunoda, the rising star of Formula 1, has broken his silence on the controversial decision by Red Bull to pass over his services for a seat alongside Max Verstappen in 2025. Despite being the more experienced of the two candidates in the race for the coveted Red Bull seat, Tsunoda was ultimately overlooked in favor of teammate Liam Lawson—a decision that sent shockwaves through the paddock. However, instead of the anger and bitterness one might expect, Tsunoda has expressed an unexpected calm and resilience, revealing his perspective on the decision and his unwavering dedication to his career.
The vacant Red Bull seat came as a result of Sergio Perez’s catastrophic season, which ultimately saw him dropped from the team. This set the stage for a high-stakes showdown between Tsunoda and Lawson for the open spot. Tsunoda, who had spent several years refining his skills with Red Bull’s sister team, AlphaTauri, seemed to be the natural choice. But the decision-makers at Red Bull had other plans.
A Mental Toughness Edge: Why Lawson Got the Nod
According to Red Bull, Lawson’s mental fortitude and impressive performances throughout the season earned him the upper hand. In contrast, Tsunoda, despite his undeniable talent and more substantial experience, has struggled to quiet the lingering doubts from senior bosses regarding his consistency and ability to perform under pressure. Red Bull’s leaders, including team principal Christian Horner, highlighted Lawson’s resilience and ability to handle the stress of competing at the highest level as the determining factor in their decision.
Yet, Tsunoda has refused to let the decision cloud his judgment. In a candid interview at the F1 75 season launch, he opened up about his reaction to being passed over once again by the Red Bull family. “I wasn’t super angry or disappointed at that point,” Tsunoda confessed. “Maybe I was prepared inside my head at some point, but in the end, whatever happens, I know I’ll still have a chance to prove myself.”
A Master of Resilience: Tsunoda’s Humble Yet Determined Approach
Rather than harboring resentment, Tsunoda appears to have accepted the decision with a sense of maturity and determination. He has acknowledged that, regardless of whether he drives for Red Bull or continues with its sister team, Racing Bulls, his mission remains the same: to improve, to develop, and to prove his worth as a Formula 1 driver. “It’s not easy to be Max’s teammate, but it would be a cool opportunity to prove myself in a different environment,” Tsunoda reflected, demonstrating a rare blend of humility and ambition.
He also expressed his commitment to helping Racing Bulls, the Faenza-based team he has called home for years, develop into a formidable force in the Formula 1 grid. Tsunoda knows the importance of leadership and feels a deep sense of responsibility to help his team achieve its goals—goals that go beyond simply securing a seat at the elite Red Bull Racing squad.
Tsunoda’s Future: A Potential 2026 Opportunity?
As Red Bull shifts its focus to the future, the 2026 Formula 1 regulations loom large. Tsunoda, ever the pragmatic driver, is fully aware that his best shot at securing a place at the front of the grid may come after the major rule changes. In fact, he’s even open to the possibility of Racing Bulls being rebranded under a new name if that helps him achieve his goal. “If we change the name again, maybe I can say I’m part of a new team,” Tsunoda joked, showing that his optimism is matched only by his adaptability.
Despite this, Tsunoda remains fiercely loyal to the Red Bull family. “I’ve been with this team for five years, and I feel connected to every person here. It’s not just about a seat at Red Bull Racing—it’s about being part of something bigger, something that I’ve grown with,” he said with a sense of pride.
Conclusion: The Unseen Fire Behind Tsunoda’s Calm
Yuki Tsunoda may not have been the first choice for Red Bull’s 2025 lineup, but don’t mistake his calmness for complacency. This is a driver who is determined to prove himself on the biggest stage of all. Whether it’s by helping Racing Bulls ascend the ranks or biding his time for an eventual opportunity with Red Bull Racing, Tsunoda’s story is far from over. His resilience, self-awareness, and commitment to growth ensure that he will be a force to be reckoned with, no matter where he drives.