Yuki Tsunoda handed Red Bull praise as F1 seat decision looms

Yuki Tsunoda Receives Praise from Red Bull as F1 Future Remains Uncertain

Yuki Tsunoda is waiting for confirmation from Red Bull about his Formula 1 seat for next season, following a run of mixed performances. The Japanese driver, who joined Red Bull earlier this year to replace Liam Lawson, has found it difficult to consistently match teammate Max Verstappen’s pace. Tsunoda has scored points in only six of the 18 races so far.

Red Bull is currently assessing its driver lineup for both the main team and its sister outfit, Racing Bulls. Despite Tsunoda’s challenges, team principal Laurent Mekies expressed optimism about his recent progress, particularly in the Mexican Grand Prix.

“Yuki had his best weekend in a long time,” said Mekies. “He was very close to Max in qualifying, around two-tenths in Q2. During the race, his first stint was also very strong — just a few tenths away from Max on the same long run with the medium tires.”

“We extended his first stint because it was strategically beneficial, but a slightly slow pit stop cost him some valuable points he deserved,” Mekies added.

Tsunoda’s future at the team remains undecided as Red Bull weighs its options for the 2026 season.

Author’s Summary

Red Bull boss Laurent Mekies lauds Yuki Tsunoda’s performance in Mexico, though uncertainty continues around the Japanese driver’s Formula 1 seat for next year.

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RacingNews365 RacingNews365 — 2025-11-02

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