Red Bull‘s senior advisor Helmut Marko has set a decisive deadline for Yuki Tsunoda to demonstrate noticeable improvement in his Formula 1 performances by the Mexico Grand Prix. The Japanese driver, signed earlier this season, has struggled to consistently deliver strong results, placing his future with the team under scrutiny as Red Bull looks to secure the most competitive lineup possible.
So far, the new RB21 car has encountered challenges with overall speed and competitiveness, especially compared to rival teams on the grid. While Max Verstappen has secured two race wins this season, keeping Red Bull stable in fourth place in the Constructors’ Championship, Tsunoda’s performance has not matched up to expectations. The team‘s second seat, once held by Liam Lawson who was replaced after two races due to lackluster showings, still struggles to contribute significant points consistently.
In search of a more reliable and competitive driver alongside Verstappen, Red Bull has placed pressure on Tsunoda to raise his performance level without delay. Marko clarified that Tsunoda, now 25 years old, must close the gap to Verstappen and demonstrate consistency throughout the upcoming races.
“He has to get closer to Max and deliver that level of performance consistently. That’s why we’ve postponed the option dates further back, and now we’ll look at the upcoming races and then a decision will be made,” he told ORF (via Motorsport.com).
Regarding the timeframe for evaluating Tsunoda’s progress, Marko indicated the key milestone is the Mexico Grand Prix.
“I would say around Mexico.”
This deadline underscores the urgency placed on Tsunoda to secure his position in the team as the season intensifies, leaving little room for error.
Yuki Tsunoda’s Goal to Boost Points and Consistency in the Final Races
After several inconsistent performances, Tsunoda has yet to score enough points to firmly establish himself, while teammate Verstappen continues to carry the team with dominant results. With 10 races remaining this season, Tsunoda has openly stated his focus is on increasing his points tally and finding a rhythm of steady performance.
“Score points, I think that’s the main thing. That’s it,” he told the media (via F1). “It’s been a while since I scored points but at the same time, in those moments I didn’t score points I also knew that I was [going] in the right direction and especially the last two races before the summer break after I got upgrades, I kind of proved to myself and proved to them that I’m still there.”
Red Bull is currently positioned fourth in the Constructors’ Championship, holding 194 points. Verstappen alone has contributed 187 of those points, highlighting the disparity in contributions within the team. While the gap between Red Bull and Williams, who have 70 points, remains comfortable, Mercedes is extending its lead behind Red Bull and is aiming to catch Ferrari for second place in the championship standings.
Tsunoda’s ability to perform under the spotlight and meet Red Bull’s expectations by Mexico could determine whether he maintains his place alongside Verstappen or if the team opts for alternatives. The looming deadline adds significant pressure but also provides clear motivation for the young driver as he strives to prove his capabilities in one of F1‘s most competitive seats.
