Tsunoda Ready to Aid Verstappen in Championship Fight: 'I Know What to Do'

Yuki Tsunoda is setting his sights on playing a crucial role in the intensifying 2025 Drivers' Championship battle, stating he knows 'exactly what to do' to support teammate Max Verstappen, even without direct instructions.

Why it matters:

Yuki Tsunoda's willingness to act as a supportive teammate could be a significant factor in the tight 2025 F1 championship. As Red Bull Racing aims to secure another title, having a driver like Tsunoda who understands his role in critical race situations can provide a strategic advantage, potentially helping Max Verstappen fend off rivals and consolidate his lead. This shows the team's cohesion and the strategic depth needed to win championships.

The Details:

• Speaking to GPblog during the Qatar Grand Prix, Tsunoda was asked about the possibility of assisting Max Verstappen in winning the drivers' title.
• He admitted that he had not yet received specific instructions from the Red Bull Racing team regarding his role.
• Despite this, Tsunoda expressed confidence, stating, "No specific instruction yet. First of all, let's see how the qualifying goes. I think the qualifying order… naturally, if I'm behind him, I know exactly what to do."
• He further elaborated, "When I'm driving behind him and driving close to him, and my car is ideally behind, I know what to do. That’s what I've got to do."
• This suggests a proactive approach to team strategy, where Tsunoda is prepared to manage his race to benefit Verstappen if the situation arises, such as holding off competitors or providing a slipstream.

Between the lines:

While Tsunoda's public declaration is a show of team loyalty, it also subtly highlights the hierarchy within Red Bull Racing. For a driver whose future within the Red Bull family is still uncertain, making such statements reinforces his commitment and value to the team. His contract situation, with Liam Lawson also contending for a seat, adds another layer of motivation for Tsunoda to prove his strategic importance beyond just raw pace.

What's next:

Tsunoda's future remains a topic of speculation, with a potential battle for a seat against Liam Lawson within the Red Bull Racing family. He is also reportedly linked with Aston Martin, driven by their partnership with Honda, which could offer an alternative path if a Red Bull seat doesn't materialize. How he executes this 'supportive role' in upcoming races, should the opportunity arise, could play a part in shaping his next career move and demonstrate his strategic acumen to potential suitors or solidify his position within the Red Bull camp.