Honda encourages Red Bull to retain Tsunoda for the 2026 season.

      "I still believe he possesses the same potential as before."

      Honda Racing Corporation President Koji Watanabe has encouraged Red Bull to keep Yuki Tsunoda for 2026, even as Honda concludes its technical collaboration with the team and transitions to being Aston Martin's full works engine supplier. In an interview with as-web.jp, Watanabe mentioned that Honda might continue to personally support Tsunoda beyond 2025, maintaining a connection with the Japanese driver regardless of Red Bull's engine shift.

      Tsunoda’s future is uncertain as Red Bull evaluates whether to promote Isack Hadjar or keep the 25-year-old, who recently participated in a demonstration run with Honda’s classic 1965 RA272. Many in the paddock believe Red Bull's indecision signifies concerns about placing a young rookie alongside Max Verstappen, who has consistently outperformed teammates.

      Regarding the demo run in Mexico, Watanabe stated, "By having Yuki Tsunoda, one of Japan’s leading F1 drivers, drive the car at the Mexico GP—where Honda celebrated its first victory 60 years ago—we hope to convey a message to the world that Honda's endeavors will persist into the future."

      Specifically mentioning Tsunoda, he added, "I continue to believe he has the same potential as before. I think he is capable of competing at Red Bull, so I hope he can demonstrate strong driving in the remaining races and remain with the team."

      Watanabe confirmed that Tsunoda's situation would likely be a topic of discussion in forthcoming meetings with Red Bull: "I think Tsunoda will probably be a subject of conversation."

      When asked about the unexpected delay in the 2026 driver decisions, amid rumors of disagreements within Red Bull’s upper management, Watanabe remarked, "We are partners and have cultivated a relationship of trust over the years. The decision on drivers ultimately lies with the team."

      "Nonetheless, we believe Tsunoda has potential, and we plan to convey our view that he will be fully capable of being a part of the Red Bull family in 2026 as well."

      He added that Honda would be pleased if Tsunoda remained within any segment of the Red Bull organization, including Racing Bulls, and that ongoing sponsorship is "possible."

      "He’s a driver who emerged from Honda’s training program, so we aim to keep some form of connection with him moving forward," Watanabe stated. "For instance, we could have him participate in Honda’s Thanks Day events or other activities we organize."

      Racing Bulls chief Alan Permane indicated at Interlagos that the final decision might be postponed until after the Abu Dhabi finale. "That might indeed extend right until the end of the season," he admitted. "You might not learn the outcome until Monday morning following Abu Dhabi."