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The stakes are high for Yuki Tsunoda
As Yuki Tsunoda gears up for his fifth season with Red Bull’s sister team, Racing Bulls, the pressure is palpable. The 24-year-old Japanese driver finds himself in a critical position, needing to outperform his rookie teammate, Isack Hadjar, to secure his future in Formula 1. Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s motorsport advisor, has made it clear that Tsunoda’s performance will determine whether he remains in the Red Bull family or faces an uncertain future.
Challenges and opportunities
Tsunoda’s journey in Formula 1 has been a rollercoaster ride. After a meteoric rise through the junior ranks, he has shown flashes of brilliance alongside notable teammates like Nyck de Vries and Daniel Ricciardo. However, with Lawson’s promotion to partner Max Verstappen in 2025, Tsunoda must now focus on proving himself against Hadjar. Marko emphasized the importance of mental strength, stating, “He has to show it himself.” The added pressure of competing with a young and fast teammate could either ignite Tsunoda’s competitive spirit or expose his vulnerabilities.
What lies ahead for Tsunoda?
If Tsunoda fails to deliver this season, his options may dwindle. Although Aston Martin could be a potential landing spot, the team’s current lineup, including the experienced Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll, complicates matters. Honda’s support for Tsunoda remains, but the message from Koji Watanabe, president of Honda Racing Corporation, is clear: “Drivers can’t rely on Honda forever.” As Tsunoda enters this pivotal season, he must take charge of his destiny and demonstrate that he has what it takes to thrive in the high-stakes world of Formula 1.