Tsunoda's Only Regret: Leaving Racing Bulls' 'F***ing Good' Car

Yuki Tsunoda reflects on his move to Red Bull, stating his primary regret isn't taking the opportunity but missing out on Racing Bulls' "f***ing good" car, which he helped develop. Despite a challenging season and ultimately losing his seat for 2026, he remains confident in his decision to join Red Bull.

Why it matters:

Yuki Tsunoda's F1 journey has taken a dramatic turn, moving from a dream promotion to Red Bull to being left without a race seat for 2026. This situation highlights the intense pressure and high stakes in F1, where driver performance and team dynamics constantly reshape careers. His reflections offer a candid look into the emotional and professional complexities drivers face when their path diverges from expectations, especially when leaving a car they've personally influenced.

The Details:

• Promotion to Red Bull: Tsunoda joined Red Bull from the Japanese Grand Prix this year, replacing Liam Lawson, with expectations to support Max Verstappen and boost the team's constructor championship efforts.
• Challenging Campaign: Despite progress, Tsunoda's season at Red Bull was frustrating, with a best finish of sixth in Azerbaijan and no podiums.
• Imola Crash Impact: A significant qualifying crash at Imola early in the season dented his confidence and set him back in terms of upgraded parts, which he still views as a major frustration.
• Loss of 2026 Seat: Red Bull ultimately decided his speed and development rate were insufficient, replacing him with Isack Hadjar for the new rules era. Liam Lawson secured his seat at Racing Bulls for 2026 alongside Arvid Lindblad, leaving Tsunoda without a race seat.
• Primary Regret: Tsunoda expressed regret over leaving the strong car at Racing Bulls, stating, "It is like throwing away your kids, your baby - because this is the car that I developed with the team throughout the years, since we had this regulation. I'm sure there's my DNA inside as well."
• No Regret for Red Bull Move: Despite the outcome, he affirms, "I don't regret that decision [to join Red Bull], I would say, still now."
• Notification: Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko informed Tsunoda on Sunday night of the Qatar Grand Prix that he would not be retained for 2026.
• Contractual Restrictions: Tsunoda revealed that while other teams showed interest, his contract with Red Bull prevented him from engaging in negotiations, keeping him fully focused on Red Bull as his priority.

What's next:

While Tsunoda will serve as Red Bull's test and reserve driver next year, his future beyond that remains uncertain. His current focus is on the upcoming Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, which he acknowledges will likely feel more significant after the race, as the reality of his last F1 race for now sinks in. His experience underscores how quickly fortunes can change in Formula 1, even for drivers who receive a coveted call-up to a top team.