Yuki Tsunoda Set to Depart Red Bull: New Teammate for Max Verstappen on the Horizon
Yuki Tsunoda’s time with Red Bull Racing appears to be coming to an end as the team seeks a new partner for reigning champion Max Verstappen ahead of the upcoming season. The Japanese driver has faced a tough 2025 campaign, initially showing promise with the Racing Bulls but managing to secure only 10 points since his transition to Red Bull.
Red Bull has seen a whirlwind of driver changes since Daniel Ricciardo’s departure at the conclusion of 2018, with few drivers lasting more than a single season. Tsunoda was brought in mid-season to replace Liam Lawson, who was let go just two races in, following a decision by former team principal Christian Horner, who was dismissed earlier this month.
As confirmed by various sources, Tsunoda is set to be released from the team after the current season, although he will remain in his position until the final race in Abu Dhabi. With Horner’s exit, the team is undergoing a significant transformation, with Helmut Marko now the longest-serving member in the Red Bull factory.
Emerging Candidates to Replace Tsunoda
Isack Hadjar has emerged as a leading contender to take over Tsunoda’s seat. Since their swap, Hadjar has consistently outperformed Tsunoda, indicating that any issues may lie more with the car than the driver. In his rookie season with Racing Bulls, Hadjar has shown impressive potential, although he still requires more time to refine his skills before stepping up to the main team. Remarkably, he has nearly matched the points total of both Lawson and Tsunoda combined.
Hadjar expressed his interest in a potential promotion, stating, “When I signed my contract with Red Bull four years ago, my goal was always to reach the main team. That hasn’t changed. I would love the chance to explore that opportunity.”
Another intriguing possibility is the young British driver, Arvid Lindblad, currently competing in Formula 2. At just 17, he has received an exemption to obtain a superlicense, typically reserved for drivers aged 18 and older. Lindblad recently took control of the Red Bull during Free Practice 1 at the British Grand Prix and has been accumulating valuable experience in older F1 cars.
While Lindblad boasts significant talent, he remains a long shot for the seat. It’s more likely that he will step up to replace whichever Racing Bulls driver gets the call to Red Bull.
As the team prepares for the future, fans will be eagerly watching to see who will ultimately partner with Verstappen in the next season. Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving story in the world of Formula 1 racing!
