Tsunoda Eyes Home Podium with Red Bull at the Japanese Grand Prix

In a stunning last-minute switch, Tsunoda joins Red Bull at Suzuka — eyes on the podium, pride on the line in Japan.

Yuki Tsunoda has his sights set high — and he’s not holding back. The Japanese driver is already back on home soil, preparing for the Japanese Grand Prix and taking part in demo runs for Red Bull Racing and Honda ahead of the Suzuka weekend. But this time, there’s a twist: he’ll be racing in Red Bull colors.

The announcement came as a surprise, even to Tsunoda himself. Originally scheduled to drive for Racing Bulls, the sudden seat swap with Liam Lawson now puts him in the spotlight — at home, in a Red Bull, and ready for the challenge.

“Honestly, I didn’t expect to be racing for Red Bull at the Japanese Grand Prix,” Tsunoda admitted. “With this being the final year of the Red Bull–Honda partnership, racing at Suzuka in a Red Bull just feels… right. Everything just aligned perfectly.”

While excited, Tsunoda is keeping things realistic. A podium is the dream — but he knows it won’t come easy.

“Of course I want to finish on the podium, especially here at home. But first, I need to get a proper feel for the car. It’s very different from the VCARB 02 I’m used to. If I enjoy driving it and get into the rhythm from FP1, the results will follow. A podium would be incredible.”

Honda’s Support and Red Bull’s Call

There’s been speculation that Honda played a role in pushing for Tsunoda’s promotion — perhaps even financially. But Dr. Helmut Marko has publicly denied any such deal influenced the decision. For Tsunoda, the support from Honda has always been there — but he believes it was Red Bull’s trust in his talent that ultimately made it happen.

“Honda has always had my back. I don’t know the full details of the discussions behind the scenes, but if Red Bull chose me, it’s because they believe in what I can bring to the team alongside Max.”

Some questioned whether staying with Racing Bulls — a car he knows well — might’ve been a safer option. But for Tsunoda, there was no hesitation.

“When the call came in, I was like: ‘Wow… this is it.’ It’s exciting, it’s a challenge, and I’ve been waiting for something like this for a long time.”

“Moments like this don’t come often — high pressure, huge opportunity. I know it’ll be intense, but I’m ready.”

Even though this is a dream moment, Tsunoda remained grounded, first speaking with his engineers and thanking those who’ve supported him throughout his journey.

“I’ve actually already done a seat fitting for Red Bull this year — I’m the team’s official reserve driver. But back then, I remember thinking, ‘Why am I even doing this? I won’t be racing.’ Now here we are.”

Can He Handle the RB21?

Lawson had a rough start to the season in the RB21 — so can Tsunoda handle the beast better? After simulator sessions and prior tests in the RB20, he’s confident.

“I spent two days in the sim this week, and honestly, I didn’t find the car that hard to drive. The front end is super responsive, like people always say — and it’s true. But I didn’t feel anything too strange.”

He’s also keen to develop his own setup, rather than mirror Verstappen’s preferences.

“I want my own settings, ones that make sense to me. From FP1 onward, I plan to build up my pace gradually.”

Adaptability is His Strength

Tsunoda doesn’t hide the fact that adaptability has been a key strength throughout his F1 career.

“I’ve raced through two generations of F1 cars — before and after the ground effect era — and I’ve never dipped in form. I’ve only grown stronger.”

“Now I have the experience and tools to take on a challenge like this. I feel ready. I can’t wait to get on track at Suzuka.”

• Discover More>Doohan: “I’m on the same pace as Gasly”
• Follow us on >FACEBOOK and >TWITTERfor F1 updates

Tsunoda Targets Suzuka Podium in Red Bull Shock
Tsunoda Targets Suzuka Podium in Red Bull Shock