Yuki Tsunoda is content with his seat at VCARB, although he will stay alert for openings in the market. The 24-year-old is performing at a very high level in 2024, becoming an increasingly hot commodity in F1. However, his paths for next season are somewhat limited.
In terms of pure performance, Tsunoda can be relatively content with VCARB. The Faenza-based outfit is comfortably sixth in the standings, having produced a competitive 2024 challenger. He is able to regularly score points, often running as the unofficial ‘best of the rest’ behind the top teams.
From this perspective, there is no rush to leave the Italian outfit. It cannot be said there are many options at the top teams either, as Tsunoda explained to the media last week:
“Yeah, I mean, so far very happy with the VCARB. So I mean other options… and probably now the top teams are pretty much taken.”
LIMITED OPPORTUNITIES FOR TSUNODA AT RED BULL
However, other factors will contribute to his future. One of the most important will be contract longevity. Up until now, the team led by Laurent Mekies typically offers its drivers one-year deals.
As Red Bull’s second team, young talents are always vying for seats at the Racing Bulls. This can be a difficult environment to navigate owing to the very limited certainties offered at Faenza.
With Red Bull reluctant to consider Tsunoda for a seat in the main team, it is logical he will look elsewhere:
“I mean, probably, we’re the strongest team in the midfield, at least. We’ll see. I think, obviously, especially when I’m in Red Bull, you want to always aim for Red Bull.
“But if they don’t want me or they’re not expecting me into the seat – if I’ve got an interesting offer that could be better than even VCARB or Red Bull, I’ll think about it.”
MONTE-CARLO, MONACO – MAY 25: Yuki Tsunoda of Japan and Visa Cash App RB prepares to drive in the garage prior to qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 25, 2024 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco. (Photo by Rudy Carezzevoli/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202405250569 // Usage for editorial use only //
Unless there is an unexpected turn of events, Tsunoda is someone to expect on next year’s grid. On a more macro level, he is developing into a driver who can compete in F1 for a very long time.
Because of this, he may look outside of the Red Bull set-up for his next contract. A contract extension with VCARB is still expected, but this is more out of pragmatism than anything else.
Should Christian Horner’s team fail to offer him a path up the ladder, other teams may be able to attract Tsinoda’s services.
