Tsunoda Reveals Rumor of Last-Minute Reprieve Before Red Bull's 2026 Decision

Yuki Tsunoda has disclosed that he heard a last-minute rumor he would retain an F1 race seat for 2026, just moments before Red Bull officially informed him he was being demoted to a reserve role. This last-minute whisper made the official confirmation of his replacement by Isack Hadjar a genuine surprise, despite Tsunoda having mentally prepared for a potential move off the grid. The Japanese driver will now step into a reserve and test driver position for the team as F1 enters a new era of regulations.

Why it matters:

The revelation sheds light on the apparent chaos and mixed signals within Red Bull's driver program during a critical decision-making period. For a team known for its ruthless efficiency, the conflicting information presented to a driver highlights potential internal discord or a last-minute change of heart at the highest level. It also underscores the intense pressure and uncertainty drivers face, where their careers can hinge on decisions made behind closed doors, sometimes communicated with confusing timing.

The details:

• The Official Plan: Red Bull announced ahead of the Abu Dhabi GP that Isack Hadjar would replace Sergio Perez at the senior team for 2026, while Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad would take the two seats at Racing Bulls, leaving Tsunoda without a race drive.
• The Last-Minute Rumor: Tsunoda was officially briefed after the Qatar GP. However, he told DAZN Japan that just before that meeting, he had heard the decision might have been changed to allow him to stay on the grid. "I heard that the decision might have been changed just before my briefing... so it took me by surprise."
• Professional Reaction: Despite the shock, Tsunoda maintained his focus. "When they told me I don't have a permanent seat next year, it wasn't like the world collapsed," he said, immediately turning his attention to the final race in Abu Dhabi.
• An Expanded Reserve Role?: Tsunoda hinted his 2026 role may be more involved than typical reserve duties. "There's a chance that it won't just be simulator and backup duties next year," he revealed. "I've already heard a few possible scenarios."

What's next:

Tsunoda's role as a reserve driver in 2026 could be more significant than it appears. With the introduction of massive new power unit and aerodynamic regulations, his feedback from extensive testing could be invaluable to Red Bull's development program. The "possible scenarios" he mentioned could range from being the primary test driver for the new car to being on standby for a potential mid-season promotion. While his time on the grid is paused, this position could be a strategic pathway back to a full-time race seat if he excels.