Yuki Tsunoda is adapting to a new role in F1 for 2026, serving as a reserve driver for Red Bull and their affiliate, Racing Bulls. This shift comes after he lost his full-time racing position at the conclusion of the 2025 season.
During the recent Chinese Grand Prix, Tsunoda discussed this transition with F1.com, reflecting on his career thus far and expressing his eagerness to return to active racing.
Last year, Tsunoda was looking forward to a highly anticipated promotion with Red Bull at his home Grand Prix in Suzuka. He had replaced Liam Lawson after only two rounds of the 2025 season. “It can’t get crazier than this,” he remarked at a Tokyo event before going on track with Max Verstappen.
However, eight challenging months later, despite efforts from both Tsunoda and the team, he was replaced by up-and-coming talent Isack Hadjar, leading the 25-year-old to confront a period away from competitive racing.
For the first time in five years, Tsunoda is outside of active racing, participating as a reserve driver for Red Bull, engaging in team debriefs, using their simulator, and contributing to the team’s operations.
Tsunoda’s F1 Journey
With more time to reflect now, Tsunoda sees it as an apt moment to review his F1 experience in a quiet area of Red Bull’s hospitality at the Shanghai International Circuit. “It began exceptionally well,” he reminisces about his F1 debut at the 2021 Bahrain Grand Prix. “In pre-season testing, I was second overall, very close to Max, and managed to qualify for Q2 alongside Lewis Hamilton. I felt like a hero!”
Tsunoda encountered difficulties in Q2, yet finished the race in ninth place after a poor start. His impressive debut earned him acclaim from seasoned personalities in the paddock.
As the rookie season progressed, Tsunoda grappled with maintaining consistency. Although he ended the year strong with a notable fourth place at the Abu Dhabi finale, questions lingered regarding his temperament and physical fitness as he headed into his second season.
“In the latter half of my third year, I finally felt in good shape,” Tsunoda explains. “I aspired to take on a leadership role within the team, which required emotional control—something I initially struggled with.” He highlights the need to manage his emotions better, particularly in high-pressure situations.
Red Bull Dynamics
Despite an outstanding 2024 season recognized by Racing Bulls’ team leader Laurent Mekies, Tsunoda faced competition for a promotion to Red Bull. Ultimately, after Lawson’s underwhelming performance, Tsunoda stepped into the seat. He felt it was the culmination of years of hard work, particularly performing in front of his home crowd during the Japanese Grand Prix.
With strong initial results, Tsunoda’s trajectory faced setbacks, including a critical crash that limited his performance. The season became his most challenging yet, leading to a deeper understanding of himself.
Looking Ahead
Tsunoda’s mindset has shifted to coping with his demotion and focusing on being prepared for future opportunities. “I’ve been physically training harder than ever,” he states. “Getting back behind the wheel is still my goal, and I’m in the best shape I’ve ever been.”
He acknowledges the struggle of being a spectator, especially during critical races. “I realized how much I care about F1,” he admits. Tsunoda aims to remain visible in the paddock, emphasizing that he isn’t giving up on his racing aspirations. “While I can’t control my future, I can focus on making the most of each day,” he concludes.
