Yuki Tsunoda faced a difficult transition into Red Bull Racing largely due to the complexities of handling the RB21 car. However, by securing his best finish of the season at the 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, the Japanese driver revealed that he has begun unlocking performance that had previously eluded him. This breakthrough gives renewed optimism regarding his future within Red Bull’s Formula 1 lineup.
Tsunoda reflected positively on his weekend in Baku, indicating that his ongoing dedication and recent developments in the car have converged to produce tangible results, strengthening his position amid the evolving dynamics at Red Bull Racing.
How the challenges of Baku tested drivers and highlighted Tsunoda’s resilience
The 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix proved a formidable test for many Formula 1 competitors, as unpredictable gusts and the demanding nature of Baku City Circuit disrupted the usual order. Championship favorites hit barriers, and many race strategies were upended by the circuit’s notorious difficulty.
Amid this chaos, Tsunoda stood out by adapting to these trials and making the most of the weekend. His journey has been marked by complexity; although backed by Red Bull, his original affiliations tie closely to Honda, and Red Bull’s switch to Ford engines in 2026 has cast uncertainty over his long-term role. Nevertheless, the Red Bull Junior Program currently has a limited pool of candidates, with only one of its four Formula 1 seats confirmed, highlighting why Tsunoda’s form is crucial.
Insights into Red Bull’s driver strategy and Tsunoda’s recent gains
Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s special advisor, recently indicated that decisive driver lineup choices could occur around the upcoming Mexico City Grand Prix, creating pressure and motivation for Tsunoda, Liam Lawson, and Isack Hadjar to prove themselves. This strategic timeline underlines the importance of Tsunoda’s performances in the closing stages of the 2025 season.
Since receiving a floor upgrade at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza, Tsunoda’s pace and handling have improved notably. This progress culminated in his sixth-place finish in Baku, which he credits to both the technical enhancements and his own increased commitment.
Definitely, I unlocked something [in Monza], which I proved in FP2 and long-runs as well,
Tsunoda told journalists after the Azerbaijan race.
He acknowledged that although his pace has yet to match that of teammate Max Verstappen, he has narrowed the gap and is progressing steadily.
I think also it shows some improvement for myself, that I put some effort over the weeks to put in extra work, to do some extra simulator work. And I think that pays off for a little bit. I’ll just keep doing what I’m doing.
Defensive prowess and strategic racecraft key to Tsunoda’s Baku performance
During the Azerbaijan race, Tsunoda skillfully defended his position in the closing laps against intense pressure from championship leader Lando Norris and fellow Red Bull junior Liam Lawson. Although Lawson eventually found a way past, Tsunoda successfully resisted an overtake attempt from Norris.
The challenge was significant due to tire constraints. Tsunoda ran on hard tires with low degradation but faced difficulties with the medium compound tires he held from qualifying, which overheated quickly.
He explained the balance he needed to strike: aggressive attempts risked losing ground to his rivals, which could have allowed McLaren’s cars to advance ahead. Maintaining position ahead of McLaren was a primary concern for the Red Bull team.
So I think obviously I had a lot of emotions, that I want to overtake and do some hero stuff in overtaking.
While Tsunoda admitted he had chances for a daring move on Lawson, the layout of the Baku street circuit made such a maneuver risky, as it might have enabled Norris to slip ahead into sixth place.
It’s good for me, finishing P6 and not letting Lando in front of me,
Tsunoda said.
I think I did the right thing.
The implications of Tsunoda’s Baku result for his standing within Red Bull
Tsunoda’s performance in Baku represents a meaningful step forward during a period of significant change and uncertainty at Red Bull Racing. The team’s shift from Honda to Ford engines in 2026 and the limited number of junior drivers vying for seats underscore the importance of maintaining consistent form and growth.
With key decisions expected around the Mexico City Grand Prix, Tsunoda’s ability to capitalize on improvements and demonstrate resilience under pressure will shape how the team views his long-term role. His cautious but steady development points to a driver building momentum and confidence, qualities valued highly in Red Bull’s competitive environment.
Overall, Tsunoda’s weekend in Baku highlighted both his technical progress and strategic race management, offering a hopeful outlook for his prospects within Red Bull’s Formula 1 program as the season advances.
