Honda’s Watanabe shuts down Tsunoda exit rumors

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Honda Racing president Koji Watanabe has firmly dismissed speculation that Yuki Tsunoda could be dropped by Red Bull Racing before the 2025 Formula 1 season concludes.

Despite the Japanese driver’s current struggles, scoring points in just three races since joining Red Bull in Japan last April, Watanabe insists Tsunoda will remain with the Milton Keynes team until the season’s end.

However, the 25-year-old’s place on the F1 grid in 2026 remains uncertain, with his future hinging on improved performances.

Tsunoda’s 2025 Season Secured, 2026 Uncertain

Tsunoda’s challenging stint at Red Bull has fueled rumors of an early exit, with Racing Bulls Isack Hadjar generally perceived as being next in line to take on the unforgiving role as Max Verstappen’s teammate.

But Watanabe has quashed such talk.

“First of all, there has been no discussion about switching over during the summer break,” he told Japanese outlet AS.

“In the discussions with Red Bull in March, we agreed to transfer Yuki to Red Bull by saying, 'Just because his performance is a little poor, we will not start discussions about switching over right away, but will take a long-term view.'

“So, I don't think he will be switched over during the summer break. I know there are various rumours, but I confirmed with the team at Silverstone, where the British Grand Prix was held, and I would like to make it clear that, basically, Yuki will race for Red Bull until the end of this season.”

Read also: Tsunoda’s progress sparks hope at Red Bull, says Marko

Watanabe remains optimistic about Tsunoda’s potential to secure his future, suggesting that a turnaround in form could keep him at Red Bull or open other doors.

“I think that is also a reflection of Red Bull's high expectations for Yuki,” he said. “Those expectations have not changed, and if he can achieve results somewhere in the second half of the season, I think that will expand his possibilities for the future.”

Should Tsunoda fail to improve, his F1 career could be at risk. One potential lifeline could be a reserve role with Aston Martin, Honda’s works partner starting in 2026, though no firm commitments have been confirmed.

For now, Tsunoda’s focus will be on proving his worth to Red Bull in the remaining 2025 races to solidify his spot on the grid.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.