Yuki Tsunoda: Rising Through F1's Ranks Towards Red Bull's Seat
Image Credit: Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool
Yuki Tsunoda is one of the most promising drivers in Formula One today. The Japanese driver has had an up-and-down start to his career. Yet, in 2023, we saw him perform well on a weekly basis, which is a massive step forward for the young driver. Sergio Pérez's seat at Red Bull looks to be under threat for 2025. If Tsunoda performs well in 2024, there is no reason why he couldn't be driving for the senior team next season.
The Career Of Yuki Tsunoda
Tsunoda made his debut in 2021 after only one year in Formula Two. The 23-year-old's raw speed is what attracted Red Bull to him. He joined AlphaTauri, now known as the Visa Cash App RB Formula One team. It was an up-and-down couple of years. He showed blistering speed but also had several crashes. Yet, in 2023, Tsunoda had a complete season filled with promising results. He performed well against the array of teammates he had. If he performs well this season, you could argue that he can join Red Bull and partner Max Verstappen in 2025. It will be an exciting season for Tsunoda as he attempts to prove himself again.
Who His Competition For The Red Bull Seat
Pérez is coming into the 2024 season with much pressure on his shoulders. The Mexican driver disappointed last year and was inconsistent throughout the season. Many people wonder whether Red Bull will keep him on post-2024. There are many options for Red Bull to choose a replacement from besides Tsunoda. The first name that comes to mind is Daniel Ricciardo. If he does well this year, the Australian will be the favorite to take the seat. Then there's Alex Albon. He had a great 2023 season at Williams. He will aim to join a team that can win the title in 2025. Finally, you have Carlos Sainz. He is leaving Ferrari at the end of the year and has an excellent reputation on the track. In the past, Red Bull has often promoted from within. So, they would likely want to bring in somebody from the junior team. Why not Tsunoda?
Other Options
If Red Bull feels there is no future, Tsunoda will be looking elsewhere for opportunities. Then, many teams would show interest in hiring the Japanese driver. Aston Martin will partner with Honda in 2026, which is an exciting proposition for F1. Honda and Tsunoda have a strong relationship, so we could see him at Aston Martin. Of course, he would be a massive get for a team like Williams if Albon decided he wanted to leave. It is because Tsunoda brings youth and experience with him. Finally, Alpine could be a suitable option for Tsunoda.
Tsunoda is an exciting prospect in F1, and it will be great to watch his career play out.