Is Yuki Tsunoda the Next Red Bull Racing Champion of 2025?
Yuki Tsunoda, the young Japanese driver racing for Visa Cash App RB in Formula 1, has drawn considerable attention since his debut in 2021. His rapid ascent through the junior motorsport ranks, marked by a notable third-place finish in the 2020 Formula 2 Championship, hints at significant potential.
As Tsunoda continues his career in the pinnacle of motorsport, many are speculating about his future potential and impact in Formula 1. And could the driver from Sagamihara, Kanagawa potentially join Red Bull?
Tsunoda’s Early Career and Formula 1 Entry
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Tsunoda’s racing career began in karting in Japan. Eventually moving to the Japanese F4 Championship where he won the title in 2018. His move to Europe to compete in the FIA Formula 3 Championship was a pivotal step. This led to a quick progression to Formula 2.
In F2, racing for Carlin, Tsunoda won two Feature Races and one Sprint Race. Consistently performed well against a competitive field, securing third in the championship standings in his debut season.
This performance earned him a seat in Formula 1 with AlphaTauri in the 2021 Formula 1 season, making him the first Japanese driver in F1 since Kamui Kobayashi in 2014.
Formula 1 Performance 2021-2023
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Since joining Formula 1, Tsunoda’s results have been mixed. His rookie season was characterised by learning curves typical of new drivers. This includes adapting to F1’s complex cars and high-pressure environment. Tsunoda scored two points in his debut race and achieved a career-best finish of fourth at the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The Japanese achieved 32 points for his opening season in Formula 1 and helped Alpha Tauri become the sixth-best team on the grid. However, consistency has been a challenge. With fluctuations in performance partly attributed to his adaptation to the cars and circuits, some of which were new to him.
Tsunoda’s 2022 season in Formula 1 was a difficult season, not only for the Japanese driver but also for Alpha Tauri. Scoring only 12 points and his best finish was around the technical twists and turns of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, finishing seventh place. The Italian team only accumulated 35 points, finishing ninth in the constructors championship.
Tsunoda’s third season in Formula 1 was as difficult as the 2022 season. Finishing fifth in the United States and the Brazilian Grand Prix was his equalling-best result of the season. The team only scored 25 points between three of their drivers.
As Alpha Tauri replaced Nyck De Vries with Australian favourite, Daniel Ricciardo. He filled the seat only for two races as he suffered a broken wrist in the second practice of the Dutch Grand Prix. In his shoes, Liam Lawson filled out Ricciardo’s duties. Scoring two points as a reserve driver, demonstrated Formula 1’s young talent has potential even in lesser-developed cars on the grid.
Tsunoda’s Future Potential
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Looking forward, Tsunoda’s potential in Formula 1 appears promising but requires further development to reach the levels of the sport’s top drivers. His ability to learn from experiences and refine his skills will be key. And this season of the Formula 1 World Championship, Yuki Tsunoda teams up alongside Daniel Ricciardo.
Not in the Alpha Tauri, but rebranded as Visa Cash App RB. The Japanese driver is already demonstrating his prowess after four races achieving seven points for the team so far. With his best finish at the Australian Grand Prix after Fernando Alonso’s penalty, finishing sixth and finishing tenth in his home race around the Suzuka Circuit for the Japanese Grand Prix. Scoring another point.
Conclusion
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Yuki Tsunoda’s future in Formula 1 is laden with opportunities and challenges. His early career success, speed, and aggressive driving style position him as a driver with significant potential. However, his progression will depend heavily on his ability to develop into a more consistent and strategically astute racer.
So is the young Japanese driver worthy of a Red Bull in 2025 or the mere future?
Will entirely depend on two factors. If Red Bull does not want to continue with their Mexican Minister of Defence, Sergio Perez. And on Yuki’s performance in this season of Formula 1. But with seven points so far and if Yuki can continue this streak of points scoring. It won’t be long until Red Bull is seen as a worthy candidate.
If you would like to learn more news about the world of Formula 1? “Fernando Alonso Extends His Contract With Aston Martin Up To 2026” or “McLaren’s Quest for Success: Targeting the Top”
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