Tsunoda remains in the running as the decision is postponed.

Tsunoda remains in the running as the decision is postponed.

      Yuki Tsunoda's future in Formula 1 remains unclear, but the Japanese driver has received an important reprieve. After weeks of speculation, Dr. Helmut Marko has confirmed that Red Bull's final decision regarding drivers for 2026 has been postponed until the end of the season, possibly until Abu Dhabi.

      "We discussed this internally and concluded that our focus must be entirely on the championship battle," Marko told Servus TV. "It’s surprising how thrilling the situation has become. We've delayed the driver selection until after Doha (Qatar) or Abu Dhabi."

      Similarly, he mentioned to Sky Deutschland: "The decision regarding the Racing Bulls' drivers will also be postponed as we concentrate solely on the World Championship. We cannot afford any minor errors in the setup again."

      This news is a relief for Tsunoda, whose only confirmed alternative outside Red Bull is a reserve position at Aston Martin, supported by his long-time sponsor Honda. In an interview with Viaplay, Tsunoda stated that his responsibilities for the rest of 2025 are clear. "The team wants me to be in a position to potentially assist Max with his strategy or even to compete against McLaren, our biggest rival. That’s the objective I’ve been given, and I understand that," he said.

      "This is what Red Bull is aiming for. If it comes together in my situation, I’ll be very pleased. I comprehend why Max is always in the running for the world title."

      Sergio Perez acknowledged in Mexico that even after losing his own seat next to Verstappen, he felt sympathy for whoever would take his place—first Liam Lawson, now Tsunoda, both of whom are vying for their futures. Nevertheless, Tsunoda is focused on learning from his world champion teammate.

      "I’m learning a lot from Max," he noted. "This includes not only driving but also how he collaborates with the team. He approaches it very professionally. At times, he sets an incredible lap that I can’t quite grasp. That’s where his strength lies, and I’m trying to gradually close the gap."

      In Mexico, Tsunoda remarked that he was "fairly consistently close to Max during qualifying—two-tenths behind—but as a team, we struggled with pace." When asked when he would have more information about his plans for 2026, he candidly replied, "I don’t know."

      Despite this uncertainty, the 25-year-old hinted that a return to Racing Bulls might be a possibility, suggesting that he would welcome it. "I love that team," Tsunoda expressed. "If I return to Racing Bulls, I’m confident I’ll be fully motivated. Together, we’ll aim to adapt to the new regulations and enhance our team," he corrected himself while smiling.

      "We want to advance together with the entire team, and then I’ll face a new challenge." Tsunoda also recognized that it’s challenging to measure his performance against Verstappen, considering their cars are often not identical.

      "Good question," he acknowledged. "This is a responsibility for Red Bull. They’re aware of this. They want to observe my reactions and what I can extract from the car. I’ve demonstrated enough—regardless of whether I had the same specifications or not."

      For now, he will continue to wait during this decision delay. "I don’t know if this (the delay) makes me happier," Tsunoda admitted, "but I’ll keep delivering strong performances. I believe I’m heading in the right direction."

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Tsunoda remains in the running as the decision is postponed.

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