Tsunoda set for Red Bull showrun return in San Francisco ahead of 2026 season
Yuki Tsunoda will drive a Red Bull RB7 in a San Francisco showrun this February, his first major appearance since moving to a test role for 2025. The event is a key opportunity to showcase his skills as he targets a full-time return in 2026, announced alongside the upcoming release of his first book.
Yuki Tsunoda will return to the cockpit of a Red Bull Formula 1 car for a public showrun in San Francisco this February, marking his first major outing since transitioning to a test and reserve role for the 2025 season. The event will see him drive the championship-winning RB7 as he works to secure a full-time race seat for 2026, coinciding with the surprise announcement of his first book release.
Why it matters:
This event represents Tsunoda's first public step in his new capacity within the Red Bull family after losing his full-time race seat with Visa Cash App RB. Performing in a high-profile showrun demonstrates Red Bull's continued investment in him and serves as a crucial platform to maintain visibility and prove his value as he aims for a 2026 comeback. The book release adds a new dimension to his personal brand beyond the track.
The details:
- Tsunoda will drive the iconic RB7—the car Sebastian Vettel used to win his second world title in 2011—on San Francisco's Marina Boulevard on February 21st.
- The showrun occurs just one day after the conclusion of pre-season testing in Bahrain, strategically timing his appearance during a key moment in the F1 calendar.
- He will be joined by other motorsport figures, including off-road star Mitch Guthrie Jr. in a Dakar-winning Ford Raptor, former F1 driver Scott Speed in a VCARB show car, and freestyle motocross rider Aaron Colton.
- In a parallel announcement, Tsunoda revealed via social media that he will release his first book, offering fans a new glimpse into his career and personality off the track.
What's next:
The San Francisco showrun kicks off a critical year for Tsunoda as Red Bull's test and reserve driver. His performance and feedback in the simulator and during any potential practice outings will be vital to strengthening his case for a 2026 seat. The book release will further solidify his profile with fans, making him a more marketable asset for any team considering him for next season. All eyes will be on whether this multifaceted approach can successfully pave his way back to the Formula 1 grid full-time.