Haas Racing is exploring the possibility of signing Yuki Tsunoda for their 2027 Formula 1 line-up, fueling talk of a potential comeback for the Japanese driver. The speculation has grown following the team principal’s recent remarks, as the future of the team’s roster remains uncertain and the Yuki Tsunoda Haas 2027 rumor intensifies.
Haas Reconsiders Tsunoda as F1 Opportunities Shift
Yuki Tsunoda, after experiencing a difficult period at Red Bull, now faces his next season as a reserve driver, marking a significant pause in his racing career. During his tenure with Red Bull, Tsunoda only managed to score 30 points over 22 Grand Prix events, a result that led to his replacement by Isack Hadjar at the end of 2025. The setback compelled Tsunoda to reflect on his path and consider the possibility of following a route similar to Alex Albon, who rebounded into a racing seat after his own struggles.
Interest from Haas in Tsunoda is nothing new. The American team had first expressed interest in securing his services back in 2024, but Red Bull signed him before negotiations could advance. Haas instead added Oliver Bearman and experienced driver Esteban Ocon to their ranks. As the 2027 season approaches, uncertainty looms, with Bearman possibly departing for Ferrari and Ocon’s contract nearing its close. These shifting dynamics have put Tsunoda back in consideration for a race seat at Haas.
Team Leadership Addresses Tsunoda Speculation
In conversation with the press, Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu chose his words carefully when asked about the potential recruitment of Tsunoda.
“I can’t comment on his future. Obviously, he’s not our driver,”
— Ayao Komatsu, Team Principal. Komatsu underscored that Haas’s primary objective is to deliver results in the lead-up season, stating,
“Our best position… is to have a competitive ’26 season. That’s our focus.”
— Ayao Komatsu, Team Principal. His comments suggest Haas is weighing all options, focused on strengthening their performance before making decisions about future drivers.
Honda Connection Adds Complexity to Talks
Tsunoda’s longstanding ties with Honda are a significant consideration, especially as Haas is approached by numerous driver candidates for 2027. The situation is further complicated by Haas’s association with Toyota, a direct automotive competitor to Honda. Addressing potential concerns about an alliance with Haas given their Toyota partnership, Honda Racing Corporation President Koji Watanabe stated,
“No problem. They are not Team Toyota.”
— Koji Watanabe, President of Honda Racing Corporation. This assurance keeps the possibility alive that Tsunoda could join Haas without running afoul of his connections to Honda.
The Road Ahead: Will Haas Spark Tsunoda’s Return?
With new regulations set for 2026 and uncertainty in the driver market, Haas’s decision regarding Yuki Tsunoda could alter the Formula 1 landscape. If the team pursues Tsunoda, they may not only give the Japanese driver a second chance, but also inject fresh talent and energy into their line-up, possibly gaining a competitive edge in the ever-evolving F1 paddock. As the countdown to 2027 continues, the motorsport world is watching closely to see whether this comeback materializes and what it could mean for both Tsunoda and Haas.
