Yuki Tsunoda Secures 2025 Seat but Faces Uncertain Future at Red Bull

Yuki Tsunoda’s career in Formula 1 has taken an interesting turn, as he is set to continue with Racing Bulls for the 2025 season while also being named Red Bull’s reserve driver. This dual role, as reported by Motorsport.com, highlights the Japanese driver’s steady progress but also raises concerns about his long-term prospects within the Red Bull racing structure.

Despite outperforming both Daniel Ricciardo and Liam Lawson in 2024, Tsunoda was ultimately overlooked for the highly sought-after second Red Bull seat alongside Max Verstappen. Instead, the team opted to promote New Zealand’s Lawson, leaving Tsunoda in a strategic yet uncertain position. Red Bull’s decision reinforces the perception that while Tsunoda has shown significant improvement, he has yet to fully convince the team’s management that he is worthy of a promotion to the senior squad.

One major factor contributing to Tsunoda’s uncertainty is Honda’s impending departure from Red Bull in 2026. The Japanese manufacturer, which has been a key supporter of Tsunoda’s career, will end its partnership with the team to join Aston Martin. Without Honda’s backing, Tsunoda’s presence on the grid will rely solely on his on-track performances, making 2025 a make-or-break season for his career within the Red Bull system.

His new role as Red Bull’s reserve driver presents both opportunities and challenges. If Verstappen or Lawson are unable to race, Tsunoda could find himself behind the wheel of a championship-contending car, offering him a rare chance to prove his worth at the highest level. However, this position also suggests that he is currently viewed as a backup option rather than a priority for the main team. With Red Bull’s history of making swift driver changes, his future remains far from secure.

Tsunoda’s path forward is clear: he must deliver consistent and impressive performances throughout 2025 to remain a viable candidate for a Red Bull seat in the future. If he fails to stand out, he may be forced to look beyond the Red Bull program for opportunities elsewhere. As the Formula 1 driver market grows increasingly competitive, Tsunoda’s ability to showcase his talent and resilience in the coming season will determine whether he remains part of Red Bull’s long-term vision or needs to seek new challenges in his career.