Tsunoda suggests unexpected strategies from Red Bull for 2026.

      Yuki Tsunoda expressed that he was taken by surprise by Red Bull’s choice to remove him from the 2026 race lineup and suspects the decision might have changed right before it was announced. In an interview with DAZN Japan, Tsunoda stated, "The news was different from what I had previously been informed, so it came as a shock. I've been told that the decision might have been altered just before I was notified."

      The 25-year-old also discussed the difficulties of entering Red Bull’s environment mid-season, noting that the performance disparity with Max Verstappen’s side wasn’t entirely as it seemed. "My engineering team is quite skilled, but they lack experience, which sometimes meant we needed assistance. However, I couldn't always request it," the Japanese driver mentioned.

      Tsunoda commended Gianpiero Lambiase, calling him "one of the most remarkable engineers I've ever collaborated with" and characterized the Verstappen-Lambiase relationship as functioning on "a whole different level."

      Despite losing his race seat, Tsunoda suggested that his role in 2026 could involve more than just reserve and simulator responsibilities, stating, "There’s a possibility that my next year won’t solely involve simulator and reserve driver tasks." He also noted, "I've heard about a few possible scenarios," but didn’t go into further detail.

      He reflected on how he has developed under the intense competition of the 2025 season. "Being just two or three tenths behind Max can lead to falling five to seven positions on the grid. In these circumstances, demonstrating your value becomes quite challenging. But I’ve gained a lot this year – I've truly evolved as both a person and a driver."

      Tsunoda plans to take some time off before commencing training for 2026: "I’m only 25, and I have my entire life ahead of me. This is merely the beginning."