Yuki Tsunoda, making his first public appearance since his departure from Red Bull Racing, experienced a sudden car fire during a demonstration run in San Francisco. The Japanese driver’s 2011 RB7, used to celebrate Red Bull’s title-winning season, caught fire shortly after completing some donuts, forcing him to exit the vehicle safely.
Details of the Fire and Tsunoda’s Reaction
As Tsunoda stopped the car, smoke and flames erupted from the car’s rear, creating a tense moment for both the driver and onlookers. Despite the alarming situation, Tsunoda remained composed as he quickly got out of the burning RB7. Spectators nearby urged the former Formula 1 driver to move away from the vehicle as the fire intensified.
Context and Implications for Tsunoda’s Career
This event marked a significant appearance for Tsunoda following his release from Red Bull at the end of 2025, highlighting the uncertainties facing the young driver’s future in motorsport. The demonstration in San Francisco, meant to celebrate a storied car, instead underscored the risks drivers face even outside competitive racing.
🏎️🔥#RedBull car catches #fire during Yuki Tsunoda’s demo run in #SanFranciscoYuki Tsunoda was forced to jump out of a Red Bull Racing car after it caught fire during a show run in San Francisco, marking his first public appearance since leaving Formula 1 at the end of 2025.… pic.twitter.com/kjjUuhGIfh— News.Az (@news_az) February 22, 2026
🏎️🔥#RedBull car catches #fire during Yuki Tsunoda’s demo run in #SanFrancisco
Yuki Tsunoda was forced to jump out of a Red Bull Racing car after it caught fire during a show run in San Francisco, marking his first public appearance since leaving Formula 1 at the end of 2025.… pic.twitter.com/kjjUuhGIfh
— News.Az (@news_az) February 22, 2026
