Yuki Tsunoda refuses to settle for a life outside of Formula 1 and is holding onto his goal of returning to the grid. The Japanese driver, who was demoted to a reserve role after his first season with Red Bull, is still visibly present in the paddock and remains closely involved with the sport. As a test and reserve driver, he can always step in for both Red Bull teams, although he is eyeing a more permanent seat. Physically, at least, he is ready for it.
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After a disappointing season at Red Bull, Tsunoda lost his permanent seat in Formula 1 last year. The Japanese driver debuted in 2021 with the then-AlphaTauri. He made a splash at the sister team, but promotion to Red Bull failed to materialize. Even when Sergio Pérez was dismissed after four years, the team management chose the less experienced Liam Lawson. However, the latter was demoted back to Racing Bulls after just two Grands Prix in 2025. Tsunoda finished the rest of the year, but without success. The lack of World Championship points and the large gap to teammate Max Verstappen ultimately cost him his position.
‘I am in the shape of my life’
Still, Tsunoda is not giving up hope for a new chance in Formula 1 just like that. “I still want to,” he declared to the official F1 channels. “I’m not giving up on racing in Formula 1.” Going to other racing classes has its advantages – it keeps you sharp, after all – but at the same time, you don’t know exactly what is happening in Formula 1.” Despite Tsunoda no longer having a permanent seat, he is keeping fit. “I have still prepared myself well physically for the season,” he said. “I am probably in the best shape of my life now, even better than last year.”
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That dedication doesn’t come out of nowhere, as he also receives the message from the team to stay sharp. “I am absolutely satisfied with my form and I would only need some practice laps to get my muscles used to driving again,” he explained. “Sometimes it feels a bit strange to prepare and train like this, knowing that I’m not going to race. But anything can happen, that’s also what the team told me. I’ve prepared as well as possible, I’m in top shape and my mental attitude is always: ‘Okay, if the team asks me to step in, I’ll make sure I perform.’ Being ready, that’s what it’s all about.”
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