Honda confirms Tsunoda’s Red Bull future depends on his performance

Honda Racing Corporation President Koji Watanabe states that Yuki Tsunoda’s Formula 1 future with Red Bull depends on his own abilities — especially after Honda announced new partnership with Aston Martin starting 2026.

Red Bull made an early driver change this season, placing Tsunoda in the main team replacing Liam Lawson who underperformed in the opening two races. This opportunity becomes Tsunoda’s moment to prove he can compete with his teammate, Max Verstappen.

“Our partnership with Red Bull will conclude this year, so we have no leverage to pressure Red Bull regarding 2026,” explains Watanabe. “He earned his promotion to Red Bull based on his performance, so he must continue proving himself to remain there.”

Watanabe also emphasizes that Honda had no involvement in the driver swap decision — despite Tsunoda being a product of Honda’s young driver program. His debut with Red Bull’s main team will take place at the Japanese Grand Prix.

“This is the ultimate situation,” says Tsunoda. “Given the seat swap, there’s naturally pressure from Red Bull, and Honda also has strong expectations for their home grand prix. This is a rare and unique moment that I just want to fully enjoy.”