Christian Horner declined to provide a straightforward response when asked if Red Bull might consider another driver change following Yuki Tsunoda’s continued difficulties in performance. Tsunoda, like previous teammates, has found it challenging to compete closely with Red Bull’s lead driver, Max Verstappen. Despite showing potential by reaching Q3 sessions and scoring points, Tsunoda’s performance at the Spanish Grand Prix was particularly disappointing. He qualified last and was forced to start the race from the pit lane.
Red Bull attributed Tsunoda’s poor qualifying result to an incorrect setup choice, although the Japanese driver failed to make significant gains during the race. During the Barcelona event, Horner was questioned about the possibility of replacing Tsunoda again.
“I think I’m going to take a leaf out of Flavio’s [Briatore] book and say, ‘I don’t want to answer it’,”
he responded.
Horner emphasized that it remains early in Tsunoda’s tenure with the team. Despite some incidents, Horner noted,
“He’s been in Q3, scored points, he’s scored points from the pit lane.”
Horner believes the team must be patient, providing both time and support as Tsunoda adjusts to the car and builds confidence.
“Driving these cars is all about confidence, and that’s what he needs to find. I think he’ll get there. He’s fast. He’s just got to piece it all together,”
Horner said. He added,
“We keep seeing flashes of performance. We just need to see him put it all together. I think he’s capable of that.”
Isack Hadjar Emerging as Potential Red Bull Contender
Isack Hadjar, racing with Red Bull’s junior program Racing Bulls, has become one of the season’s standout newcomers. Following an impressive formation lap during the Australian Grand Prix, Hadjar’s pace and consistency have set him apart, including outperforming fellow junior Liam Lawson since his return. However, the French driver is expected to approach any rapid rise to Red Bull’s main F1 team with caution.
Past prospects like Alex Albon, Pierre Gasly, and Sergio Perez have all encountered difficulties adapting to the Red Bull car while racing alongside Verstappen. Hadjar’s path is unlikely to be exempt from similar challenges should a promotion occur.
The Road Ahead for Tsunoda and Red Bull’s Driver Lineup
Christian Horner’s cautious remarks highlight Red Bull’s current stance on Tsunoda—commitment to development and patience rather than immediate change. Given the team’s history of driver struggles alongside Verstappen, the experience of past teammates serves as a reminder that adapting to these cars is a tough task. Red Bull’s approach suggests they are willing to give Tsunoda further time to find the confidence and consistency needed to compete effectively.
Meanwhile, the progress of juniors like Isack Hadjar will continue to draw attention as the team evaluates future driver options. The ongoing challenges faced by Tsunoda ensure that the Red Bull driver lineup remains a topic of serious consideration throughout the season.
