Tsunoda Reveals Fight to Extend F1 Chapter

Formula 1, Sportrik Media - Yuki Tsunoda has disclosed his determination to "keep fighting" to secure his Red Bull Racing seat next season, advancing his ongoing "chapter" in Formula 1. The Japanese driver confronts a formidable challenge amid rumors of demotion or departure from the Red Bull fold, fueled by Isack Hadjar's ascent. Sportrik's thorough analysis examines team internals, Tsunoda's post-promotion form, and Helmut Marko's impending lineup verdict for 2026.

Tsunoda's elevation to partner Max Verstappen from the Japanese GP raised expectations, yet he's amassed only nine points. Reports suggest Hadjar is poised to supplant him at Milton Keynes, though Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko maintains no final call has been made. This scenario leaves Tsunoda vulnerable, compelled to demonstrate his worth amid fierce junior program rivalry.

Despite evident gaps to Verstappen, Tsunoda fixates on retention at Red Bull. He acknowledges speculation pressures but opts to sideline them for on-track focus. Sportrik posits this mindset embodies the mental fortitude essential in F1, where contracts hinge on immediate results over long-term allegiance.

Tsunoda Targets Red Bull Retention

Tsunoda prioritizes staying at Red Bull over reverting to Racing Bulls, his former team for over four seasons. A return would reopen an old chapter, which he seeks to evade for growth. "The only thing I'm thinking about is staying at Red Bull for next year," he told select media, including RacingNews365. He elaborated, "I'm not really thinking much about the situation whether I'm going back to Racing Bulls or whatever. If that happens, I'll think about it then."

Though appearances suggest hardship, Tsunoda views the trial as developmental. "I've already moved on to a new chapter. And so far, it probably looks like I'm in a difficult moment, but actually, that's giving me a lot of progress as a human and as a driver," he continued. "This kind of challenge—these are things you can't really experience. And I like myself fighting against them, trying to make it work. Yeah, it's good."

Sportrik's evaluation reveals this isn't mere rhetoric; Tsunoda has enhanced tire management and race strategy since his upgrade, despite limited points. With eight rounds left in 2025, each event serves as an audition. Marko, renowned for rigorous talent grooming, will likely weigh Tsunoda's consistency against Hadjar's F2 promise.

Hadjar Rumor and Red Bull Tactics

Hadjar's F2 surge has ignited speculation, with claims he's earmarked for Tsunoda's spot. Yet Marko insists decisions pend, affording Tsunoda reversal opportunities. Sportrik forecasts that elements like Japanese sponsorship backing and Tsunoda's F1 tenure could sway outcomes, particularly amid 2026 regulation shifts demanding swift adaptation.

Historically, Red Bull favors internal promotions, as with Liam Lawson's fluctuations. As F1's first Japanese driver since Kamui Kobayashi, Tsunoda offers unique market value. Should demotion ensue, avenues at teams like Williams or Alpine may beckon, though his focus remains Red Bull.

Tsunoda's F1 Career Horizon

Tsunoda remarked, "I think it's the same as what I said previously. I heard there is a lot of apparent speculation, but I was not really watching the media to pay attention. I don't know. I just keep doing the things I'm doing so far, and keep focusing on my performance and show the progress over the races, and that's it. My main priority, obviously, is to stay here."

Thus, Tsunoda's personal battle emerges as an uplifting narrative amid F1's rigors. Sportrik is optimistic this resolve could prolong his Red Bull stint, especially via podiums in the tail end. Our coverage will track Red Bull lineup evolutions for deeper insights toward 2026.