Yuki Tsunoda Axed from F1 Race Seat, Takes on Red Bull Reserve Role for 2026

Yuki Tsunoda will not secure a full-time Formula 1 race seat in 2026, with Red Bull confirming his new role as a test and reserve driver for the team. This move follows a challenging season for Tsunoda, who was promoted two rounds into the current campaign alongside Max Verstappen.

Why it matters:

This decision marks a significant turning point in Tsunoda's F1 career, shifting him from a competitive race driver to a crucial developmental role. For Red Bull, it signifies a commitment to nurturing new talent like Isack Hadjar, Liam Lawson, and Arvid Lindblad, while retaining Tsunoda's experience for the crucial 2026 regulatory changes. This strategic move aims to balance future driver development with technical continuity during a pivotal period for the sport.

The Details:

• Driver Line-up Changes: Red Bull has opted to replace Tsunoda with Isack Hadjar in their main team for 2026. The Racing Bulls seats will be filled by Liam Lawson and rookie Arvid Lindblad, indicating a major shake-up in their junior driver program.
• Challenging Season: Tsunoda, who is 25 years old, had a difficult season after his promotion, with a best result of sixth at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. He frequently finished outside the top 10, struggling for consistent points.
• New Role: Despite being out of a full-time F1 race seat, Tsunoda will remain with the Red Bull family. He is confirmed to undertake test and reserve driver duties in 2026, providing crucial support for the team's development.
• Team's Perspective: Red Bull boss Laurent Mekies praised Tsunoda's maturity and race craft, stating, "Yuki has matured into a complete racer, good over a single lap on Saturday and capable of exceptional starts and excellent race craft on Sunday." Mekies also highlighted Tsunoda's infectious personality and confirmed his invaluable support for the 2026 projects.

The Big Picture:

The 2026 season introduces significant regulatory changes, particularly concerning power units and aerodynamics. Having an experienced driver like Tsunoda in a test and reserve role will be vital for Red Bull. His understanding of the cars and feedback will directly contribute to the development of their new challenger, ensuring a smoother transition and potentially a competitive advantage. This strategic allocation of roles underscores Red Bull's long-term planning amidst a rapidly evolving F1 landscape.

What's next:

Tsunoda's focus will now shift to supporting Red Bull's 2026 car development from behind the scenes. His contributions as a test and reserve driver will be critical in simulating new regulations and providing essential data. While his immediate F1 racing career is on hold, this new role offers him a unique opportunity to influence Red Bull's future success and potentially pave a path for a return to a race seat in subsequent seasons, depending on his performance in this new capacity and the evolving driver market.