Yuki Tsunoda, a Japanese driver who competes in the Formula 1 World Championship, expressed his willingness to consider offers from other teams if Red Bull does not promote him to their main team. Despite his impressive performance this season, outperforming his teammate Daniel Ricciardo in all races except two, Red Bull has shown no intention of giving Tsunoda the opportunity to race alongside Max Verstappen. Instead, it seems that Sergio Perez will continue with the team. However, Tsunoda remains hopeful and stated that he would be open to exploring other options if they arise. Although his ultimate goal is to race for Red Bull, he is willing to consider offers that may be more attractive than his current position in the Red Bull junior team, VCARB.
«But I also have a strong loyalty to Red Bull, because without them I wouldn’t be here,» he continued. «And of course, also to Honda.
«And speaking of Honda, maybe Aston Martin, but you know, Aston also, they already have two drivers. So yeah, I mean, it’s quite open, but so far I’m satisfied with VCARB.»
Honda’s successful partnership with Red Bull will come to an end at the end of next season as the brand prepares to collaborate with Honda on the new technical regulations.
But the Japanese manufacturer has expressed a desire to extend its longstanding connection with Tsunoda, who entered the sport in 2021 with Honda’s support.
«Even if it’s after we leave, we would like to closely follow his rise to the top teams,» Honda Racing CEO Koji Watanabe told Autosport last month.
«Tsunoda completed the Honda racing school, so from HRC’s point of view, our goal is for HRC students to become top drivers.
«Por lo tanto, es realmente importante que Yuki se convierta en un piloto de primer nivel en la Fórmula 1.»
Cuando se le preguntó si sería incómodo seguir asociado a su pupilo cuando comience su asociación con Aston Martin, Watanabe respondió: «Esto no es necesariamente un desafío.
«Tenemos que tomar una decisión al respecto y evaluar la situación en ese momento. Pero podemos apoyar a Yuki para que se convierta en un piloto de primer nivel, sí.»
Además de una posible posición a largo plazo con Aston Martin, los rumores indican que Tsunoda está en conversaciones con Haas para reemplazar a Nico Hulkenberg, quien se va a Sauber.
