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Yuki Tsunoda’s future hangs in the balance: will Red Bull-Ford contract derail Honda dreams?

Publisher by Publisher
January 13, 2026
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 2 mins read
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Yuki Tsunoda’s future hangs in the balance: will Red Bull-Ford contract derail Honda dreams?

AUSTIN, TEXAS - OCTOBER 18: Yuki Tsunoda of Japan driving the (22) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB21 in the Pitlane during Qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of United States at Circuit of The Americas on October 18, 2025 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Sam Bagnall/Sutton Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202510181175 // Usage for editorial use only //

Yuki Tsunoda’s Future in Formula 1 Hangs by a Thread as Honda Contract Negotiations Stall

In a dramatic turn of events, Yuki Tsunoda’s future in Formula 1 is shrouded in uncertainty as he remains without a signed contract for 2026 amid his role as a reserve driver for Red Bull-Ford. Despite Honda asserting that Tsunoda is still one of their drivers, the shifting dynamics within the F1 landscape could pose significant challenges for the young star.

Tsunoda, who has been a product of the Honda Formula Dream Project (HFDP) since 2016, has shown impressive progress throughout his racing career. His journey from the Japanese F4 champion in 2018 to his F1 debut in 2021 has been nothing short of remarkable. After a commendable stint in Europe, he joined the Red Bull Junior Team in 2019 and quickly made a name for himself at AlphaTauri, the sister team of Red Bull Racing. However, his journey took a turbulent turn when he was promoted in April 2025 to Red Bull Racing, filling the shoes of the underperforming Liam Lawson. Tsunoda’s tenure there, unfortunately, left much to be desired, leading him to the sidelines as a reserve driver for the 2026 season.

As the Formula 1 landscape prepares for a seismic shift with the introduction of new engine regulations, Red Bull is pivoting to a self-developed powertrain in partnership with Ford, leaving Honda to focus solely on supplying Aston Martin. This transition has raised questions about Tsunoda’s status, especially as Honda’s President, Koji Watanabe, has acknowledged the complexities surrounding his contract negotiations.

“Regarding this year’s contract with Tsunoda, negotiations are ongoing, so no specific agreement has been finalized yet. This will be discussed in future talks,” Watanabe stated, hinting at a precarious situation for the 25-year-old driver. While Honda still regards Tsunoda as one of their own, the crucial factor now lies in how Red Bull and Ford perceive his role. Watanabe elaborated, “Depending on the terms Red Bull proposes, the scope within which Honda can utilize Tsunoda will change… I believe that scenario is possible.”

The stakes are high, and the pressure is mounting. Tsunoda’s career could hinge on these negotiations, with Honda’s driver academy not intertwining with Aston Martin’s plans at this juncture. Watanabe confirmed there are currently no arrangements akin to the previous partnership with Red Bull, stating, “I expect we will continue to coordinate various programs with Aston Martin, but at this point, there is nothing we have agreed upon that says, ‘Let’s do this right now.’”

With an eye toward the future, Honda is nurturing a new generation of talents, including 2024 French F4 champion Taito Kato, who is set to make waves in F3 next season. However, for Tsunoda, the clock is ticking, and his position as a reserve driver for Red Bull-Ford may complicate his aspirations.

As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on the unfolding drama surrounding Yuki Tsunoda. Will he secure a contract that allows him to return to the grid, or will he be left watching from the sidelines? The answers lie in the hands of Red Bull and Ford, and the racing world waits with bated breath.

Tags: 1958-formula-1-seasonAlphaTaurioracle-red-bull-racingyuki-tsunodas
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