Yuki Tsunoda, Red Bull’s Japanese driver, is navigating a tough 2025 Formula 1 season, sitting 17th in the Drivers’ Championship with just ten points and back-to-back last-place finishes among race completers. Despite these struggles, Honda, Red Bull’s engine supplier, has firmly dismissed any chance of Tsunoda being sacked during the Formula 1 summer break. Koji Watanabe, president of Honda’s racing division, confirmed Tsunoda’s position with the Milton Keynes team until the season’s end, emphasizing unwavering support following talks at Silverstone during the British Grand Prix. The decision aims to stabilize Red Bull’s project amid Tsunoda’s challenges, with Honda optimistic about a turnaround in the second half of 2025. The Formula 1 season resumes from July 25-27 with the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps, the 13th round of the championship.
Honda’s commitment to Tsunoda, the only Japanese driver on the grid, reflects its strategic partnership with Red Bull. The company believes in Tsunoda’s potential and sees his role as integral to their joint efforts in 2025.
- Key points of Honda’s support for Tsunoda:
- Confidence in his retention through the 2025 season.
- Optimism for improved results in the season’s second half.
- Strategic alignment with Red Bull to develop the driver.
Honda’s firm stance on Tsunoda
Koji Watanabe, speaking to Japanese outlet Auto Sport Web, categorically ruled out rumors of Tsunoda’s replacement during the summer break. He revealed that an agreement was reached in March to secure Tsunoda’s place at Red Bull, with no discussions about his exit. “We don’t expect him to be replaced. This was confirmed in Silverstone,” Watanabe stated, underscoring Red Bull’s high expectations for the Japanese driver.
Tsunoda’s 2025 season has been marked by inconsistency, with results lagging far behind teammate Max Verstappen, the championship leader. However, Watanabe noted Tsunoda’s positive mindset despite the setbacks. “When I talk to Yuki, he’s more optimistic than I expected. That’s a good sign,” the executive said.
Honda believes that enhancements to Red Bull’s car could unlock opportunities for Tsunoda to shine. “If the car’s competitiveness improves, he can seize the chances. We’ll continue giving full support to the project,” Watanabe added.
Tsunoda’s 2025 performance
Yuki Tsunoda’s 2025 season has been a struggle, with only ten points from 12 races. His recent performances, including two consecutive last-place finishes among race completers, have fueled speculation about his future at Red Bull.
- Tsunoda’s 2025 stats:
- 17th in the Drivers’ Championship.
- Ten points scored.
- Best result: ninth place at the Australian Grand Prix.
- Two consecutive last-place finishes among completers.
Despite the numbers, both Red Bull and Honda highlight Tsunoda’s technical progress, including better car adaptation and race management. Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s consultant, also defended the driver, noting “intense discussions” to align strategies and expectations.
Paddock reactions
Tsunoda’s situation has sparked comments across the Formula 1 paddock. Pierre Gasly, Tsunoda’s former AlphaTauri teammate, voiced support, stressing that the Japanese driver’s challenges are unique. “Yuki’s facing different issues, but I hope he can bounce back,” Gasly said.
Meanwhile, McLaren, a direct rival, stirred controversy by claiming Red Bull would trail midfield teams without Max Verstappen. Surprisingly, Tsunoda agreed with the statement, sparking discussions about his confidence in Red Bull’s setup.
- Notable quotes:
- Gasly: “Yuki’s challenges are unique, but he has the potential to improve.”
- McLaren: “Without Verstappen, Red Bull wouldn’t be at the top.”
- Tsunoda: “I agree with McLaren, but we’re working to change that.”
Tsunoda’s 2026 prospects
While Honda guarantees Tsunoda’s Red Bull seat for 2025, his future beyond that remains uncertain. With Formula 1’s 2026 technical regulations introducing new engines and cars, teams are already planning their lineups. Watanabe didn’t rule out exploring options like Haas, which has a technical partnership with Toyota, Honda’s Japanese rival.
“There’s no issue with Haas. They’re not Toyota,” Watanabe said, signaling openness to future negotiations. This suggests Honda is prepared to secure Tsunoda’s place on the grid, even if Red Bull opts for a different driver in 2026.
- Potential 2026 scenarios:
- Staying with Red Bull if results improve.
- Moving to a team like Haas.
- Securing a seat with a midfield team.
Belgian Grand Prix preview
Formula 1 returns from July 25-27 with the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps, offering Tsunoda a chance to reverse his fortunes. The iconic circuit, known for its challenging corners and high-speed straights, suits Red Bull’s car, which has historically performed well there.
- Belgian Grand Prix schedule (Brasilia time):
- Free practice: 07:30
- Sprint qualifying: 11:30
- Sprint race: 07:00
- Qualifying: 11:00
- Race: 10:00
Grande Prêmio will provide live, real-time coverage, including daily analysis on GPTV and YouTube in partnership with Voz do Esporte. Reporter Leonid Kliuev will be on-site at Spa-Francorchamps to cover all the action.
Outlook for the second half of 2025
Honda and Red Bull are banking on a Tsunoda resurgence in the latter half of 2025. Watanabe emphasized that strong results could solidify the driver’s position within the team and the sport. “Good results will significantly boost his future prospects,” he said.
Red Bull is focused on improving the car’s performance, particularly on tracks where Tsunoda can excel. The team believes technical tweaks and bolder race strategies could help the Japanese driver score points more consistently.
The pressure on Tsunoda is undeniable, but Honda’s backing and Red Bull’s commitment provide a foundation for growth. With the right adjustments, Tsunoda’s talent could shine through in the remaining races.
