Yuki Tsunoda can be credited with a very strong 2024 campaign. At the halfway stage of the season, Tsunoda has a strong head-to-head against highly decorated teammate Daniel Ricciardo. He is also responsible for the majority of VCARB’s points this year.
However, Tsunoda is yet to earn a promotion to Red Bull. Perhaps more pressingly, the consensus in the paddock is that the reigning Champions have never seriously considered the Japanese driver as an option to partner Verstappen.
Considering Tsunoda’s record since the start of 2022, this unwillingness to promote the 24-year-old has been a source of criticism.
When VCARB extended his contract a few months ago, many observers were critical of this decision to overlook Tsunoda for a Red Bull drive. These questions only intensified as Sergio Perez continued to struggle with performance.
Speaking of which, it is Perez’s poor performance that gives Tsunoda a window of opportunity.
Despite recently signing a new contract, Perez could lose his Red Bull seat – perhaps even mid-season. Red Bull are unhappy with his performance, which has barely enough to score points in recent events.
BUDAPEST, HUNGARY – JULY 18: Yuki Tsunoda of Japan and Visa Cash App RB talks to the media in the Paddock during previews ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Hungary at Hungaroring on July 18, 2024 in Budapest, Hungary. (Photo by Rudy Carezzevoli/Getty Images) // Getty Images / Red Bull Content Pool // SI202407180340 // Usage for editorial use only //
Tsnoda believes he is capable of Red Bull drive
Because of this, there could be a window of opportunity for Tsunoda. Speaking to Sky F1 in Hungary, he showed no fear about the prospect of facing Verstappen:
“I feel ready, at least for myself. Ready to fight against him [Verstappen] for the higher positions.
“They are the ones [Red Bull] who decides. At the same time, yeah, for myself, I am prepared and obviously looking forward to it.
“Max is one of the current best drivers, one of the best drivers in history as well.
“But I don’t think I’ll… I think I can fight hard.”
Of course, it is no secret that Christian Horner is not especially enthusiastic about promoting Tsunoda.
If he were more excited about his, the 24-year-old would have been considered for a Red Bull contract earlier this year.
Still, this reluctance does not mean Tsunoda has no chance. Provided he can secure strong results in the few events, it will become increasingly difficult for the Austrian team to overlook him.
After all, if Red Bull wants to give the likes of Lawson or Hadjar an opportunity, they need to free a seat at VCARB.
