Red Bull's powerful motorsport advisor, Helmut Marko, has sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 paddock by heavily hinting that Yuki Tsunoda is now a serious contender for a seat with the championship-winning team in 2026.
The Japanese driver's exceptional form for sister squad RB has not gone unnoticed, with Marko admitting the 24-year-old has fundamentally changed the leadership's perception of his abilities. This marks a dramatic turnaround for Tsunoda, who is now being talked about as a key player for the future.
'Convinced' by Maturity and Pace
In a revealing interview, the notoriously tough Marko stated, "We are convinced by Yuki's performance. He has made a significant leap in performance, especially in qualifying, and has become a much more complete driver."
This endorsement is a testament to Tsunoda's growth. Previously criticised for his hot-headedness on team radio, he has transformed into a consistent points-scorer, often outperforming his more experienced teammate, Daniel Ricciardo.
The 2026 Chessboard: A New Era Beckons
The timing of these comments is critical. The 2026 season will usher in a new era of F1 technical regulations, and teams are already plotting their long-term strategies.
With Sergio Perez's contract expiring at the end of 2025, a potential vacancy alongside Max Verstappen could emerge. Tsunoda is now firmly in that conversation, a prospect that seemed unlikely just one season ago.
Internal Competition and the Lawson Factor
Tsunoda's path is not without obstacles. The Red Bull driver programme is famously ruthless, brimming with talent like New Zealander Liam Lawson, who is waiting in the wings for a full-time drive.
However, Tsunoda's current form has given him a crucial advantage. By delivering under pressure and leading his team, he has positioned himself as the standout candidate from within the Red Bull stable, forcing a re-evaluation of the team's future driver line-up.
