Tsunoda 'P*ssed Off' Over Red Bull Exit as Horner Tradition Ends

Yuki Tsunoda expressed his disappointment after losing his Red Bull F1 seat for 2026, while a long-standing Christian Horner tradition of welcoming new drivers was reportedly dropped. Meanwhile, Isack Hadjar acknowledges the challenge of partnering Max Verstappen, and Lando Norris hopes for Oscar Piastri's support in Abu Dhabi.

Why it matters:

• Driver Market Shake-up: Red Bull's 2026 driver lineup changes signify a major shift, impacting multiple careers and potentially redefining the future dynamics of both Red Bull and Racing Bulls.
• Team Culture Evolution: The reported change in how Red Bull welcomes new drivers, post-Christian Horner's departure, indicates a subtle but significant evolution in the team's internal culture and communication style.
• Championship Implications: The final race in Abu Dhabi holds immense importance for McLaren's Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, with team tactics potentially playing a crucial role in the championship outcome.

The Details:

• Yuki Tsunoda's Reaction: Tsunoda admitted he is “disappointed and p*ssed off” by Red Bull's decision to move him to a test and reserve role for 2026. This comes after Red Bull confirmed Isack Hadjar as Max Verstappen's new teammate for the senior squad, with Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad forming the Racing Bulls lineup.
• End of a Tradition: Christian Horner's customary phrase, “Welcome to Red Bull Racing,” used to greet new F1 driver signings, was notably absent for Isack Hadjar. Hadjar revealed his promotion was communicated through “a talk” with Red Bull adviser Helmut Marko, with “no very cool phone call” involved, following Horner's departure in July.
• Hadjar's Approach to Verstappen: Isack Hadjar stated he is prepared to be outperformed by Max Verstappen in his debut 2026 season. He believes accepting this reality early will prevent him from being “stomped over,” acknowledging the formidable challenge of partnering a multi-world champion.
• Norris Seeks Piastri's Support: Lando Norris expressed his desire for Oscar Piastri to act as a 'wingman' at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. While Norris holds a 12-point lead over Verstappen, with Piastri a further four points behind, the decision ultimately rests with Piastri, who is still mathematically in title contention.
• Haas Rebranding for 2026: The Haas team will be rebranded as TGR Haas F1 for the 2026 season, reflecting an expanded partnership with Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR). This follows their initial technical collaboration in late 2024 and marks a significant step for Toyota, which last competed with its own F1 team in 2009.

What's next:

• Red Bull's Future: The new driver lineups for both Red Bull and Racing Bulls will begin shaping the teams' long-term strategies, with all eyes on how the young talents adapt to their new roles and responsibilities.
• Abu Dhabi Decider: The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will be critical for McLaren, as Norris aims to secure his position against Verstappen, potentially with tactical support from Piastri, if he chooses to provide it.
• Haas's New Era: The rebranding of Haas to TGR Haas F1 signals a new chapter for the team, with increased Toyota influence potentially bringing enhanced technical capabilities and a refreshed competitive outlook for 2026 and beyond.