Helmut Marko Reveals Yuki Tsunoda's Vow for Red Bull Finale

Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko has revealed that Yuki Tsunoda has made a firm promise to deliver a "spectacular" performance in his final race with the team. Tsunoda, who will leave the Milton Keynes-based squad at the end of the 2025 season, is reportedly more motivated than ever to prove himself.

Why it matters:

Yuki Tsunoda's departure from Red Bull marks a significant turning point in his career, especially as he will also miss a spot at the sister Racing Bulls outfit and transition to a test and reserve driver role next year. Ending his tenure with a strong, memorable performance in Abu Dhabi is crucial for his future prospects and could leave a lasting impression on other teams, showcasing his potential beyond his recent struggles.

The details:

• Red Bull announced earlier this week that Tsunoda will be leaving the team after the 2025 campaign, taking on test and reserve driver duties for the squad next year.
• He also missed out on a race seat at the Racing Bulls, Red Bull's sister team, indicating a shift in his F1 career trajectory.
• Tsunoda has faced a challenging season, consistently finishing outside the top 10 in races, leading to questions about his on-track performance.
• Increased Motivation: Despite the looming departure, Helmut Marko noted Tsunoda's heightened motivation, stating, "He sees this as his big opportunity and is even more motivated."
• Vow for a "Spectacular" Show: Marko revealed that in a recent dinner conversation, Tsunoda vowed to put on a "spectacular" show in Abu Dhabi, indicating his determination to end his season on a high note.
• Potential to Aid Verstappen: Tsunoda enters the upcoming round with a chance to help his teammate Max Verstappen secure a fifth F1 title, adding another layer of significance to his final performance.

What's next:

Tsunoda's final race weekend with Red Bull in Abu Dhabi will be a critical opportunity for him to demonstrate his capabilities and resilience. A strong showing could not only boost his confidence but also keep him in contention for future F1 opportunities, even in a reserve capacity. His ability to perform under pressure and deliver a "spectacular" result will be closely watched by the F1 paddock.