Yuki Tsunoda, after losing his race seat for the 2026 Formula 1 season, is preparing for a potential return by targeting teams such as Haas and Alpine for a Yuki Tsunoda F1 comeback in 2027. With his recent transition into a reserve position within the Red Bull organization, Tsunoda remains active in F1 circles while weighing his next move.
Shifting from Red Bull Reserves to Potential Grid Return
Since his debut in 2021, Yuki Tsunoda consistently appeared on the starting grid until being sidelined following the 2025 season. The decision stemmed from inconsistent results throughout the most recent campaign and impressive performances from Isack Hadjar at Racing Bulls. Instead of considering Tsunoda for rejoining the grid, Racing Bulls opted for Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad to fill their seats.
Tsunoda’s long-standing partnership with Honda provided reasons for Red Bull to keep him involved, particularly as they still require Honda’s engines for various testing activities. However, Tsunoda recognizes that his future as a full-time driver likely depends on joining a team outside the Red Bull structure, mentioning that opportunities could arise only if current Red Bull-backed drivers lose their seats before or during the season—a scenario he cannot rely on.
Exploring Haas and Alpine Openings for 2027
With Aston Martin set to run Honda power units, there’s an “obvious and natural” association for Tsunoda, but he and his management team are more actively pursuing future spots at Haas and Alpine. Both teams are appealing for a 2027 return, and scenarios at each could create opportunities. If Ferrari, for example, promotes Oliver Bearman to their main F1 squad, Haas may need to fill a vacancy. Similarly, Alpine may seek a replacement for Franco Colapinto if his rookie performance alongside Pierre Gasly does not meet team expectations. Both moves could open a door for Tsunoda’s comeback.
Overcoming Manufacturer Ties for a New Seat
Ayao Komatsu, Haas’ team principal, has shown clear admiration for Tsunoda’s talent. However, Haas is now allied with Toyota, and any potential agreement would probably require Tsunoda to sever his professional links with Honda, a significant decision for the Japanese driver. While Alpine had expressed interest in signing Tsunoda for the 2025 season, slow communication from Red Bull left him without the chance, as both Alpine seats were claimed by the end of the year.
Reflecting on the journeys of drivers such as Sergio Perez and Alex Albon—both of whom managed to return to F1 after being dropped by Red Bull—some doubt whether Tsunoda’s path will mirror theirs. Still only 25, Tsunoda has accumulated 124 points over 111 Grand Prix starts, marking him as one of Japan’s top racing exports and keeping him in contention for future opportunities should team needs or circumstances change.
Next Steps for Tsunoda in Formula 1
While his immediate future remains set as a reserve and test driver within Red Bull, Tsunoda’s active pursuit of a seat at either Haas, Alpine, or even potentially Aston Martin, highlights his determination to secure a Yuki Tsunoda F1 comeback. The decisions made by key figures such as Oliver Bearman, Franco Colapinto, Pierre Gasly, team principal Ayao Komatsu, and others across teams like Ferrari and Aston Martin, will help determine Tsunoda’s route back to racing at the top level of motorsport. His continued involvement in the discipline and his connections within the F1 paddock suggest that his return remains a strong possibility, though the ultimate outcome depends on performance shifts, strategic alliances, and timely opportunities as the 2027 season approaches.
