Red Bull Racing team principal Christian Horner has suggested that Yuki Tsunoda’s place with the team beyond the 2025 season is not guaranteed. This comes amid ongoing changes in the team’s lineup following Sergio Perez’s recent performance decline and subsequent winter replacement. The uncertain status of Tsunoda highlights the competitive and results-driven environment within Red Bull.
Background on Driver Changes at Red Bull
Perez’s initial tenure with Red Bull was supported by strong fan and sponsor backing, particularly in Central America, but his performance slump has pressured the team to reconsider their options. After Perez lost his seat, rookie Liam Lawson briefly joined the senior squad but was quickly sent back to Red Bull’s junior team, Racing Bulls, after just two races in 2024. This shifting dynamic paved the way for Tsunoda to step up as the team’s second driver.
Horner’s Expectations for Tsunoda’s Improvement
Since joining the senior team, Tsunoda has performed reasonably well but continues to lag behind star driver Max Verstappen. Ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix weekend, Horner commented to Bild on Tsunoda’s performance:
Personally, Yuki is a great fit for the team. He’s a good guy who contributes well in the garage. But if he wants to be considered for next year, he needs to improve further.
This clear message signals that Tsunoda must elevate his level to secure his role in 2026, reflecting the high stakes and limited tolerance for underperformance at the top tier of Formula 1.
Junior Drivers and Future Prospects at Red Bull
Liam Lawson’s struggles with Racing Bulls, where he has often been outpaced by fellow rookie Isack Hadjar, suggest that his chances of returning to Red Bull’s senior team are slim. Hadjar’s potential promotion remains a possibility, adding further pressure on Tsunoda. Red Bull’s development pipeline appears focused on results, emphasizing that only drivers who deliver clear progress can expect a long-term place alongside Verstappen.
Looking Ahead: What This Means for Red Bull and Tsunoda
The comments from Horner underscore a pivotal period for Tsunoda and Red Bull’s driver strategy. With a demanding competitive landscape and promising young talent waiting in the wings, Tsunoda’s future with the team hinges on his ability to respond to performance expectations. The 2026 driver lineup at Red Bull may see significant changes depending on how these pressures unfold through the upcoming races and seasons.
