Yuki Tsunoda, likely to race in another championship in 2026

Rumors within the Formula 1 paddock are becoming increasingly persistent, suggesting that Red Bull Yuki Tsunoda ‘s days in the top category may be numbered. But still with Honda ‘s support.

The Japanese driver, currently racing for Red Bull alongside Max Verstappen, seems to have one foot already out of the Circus.

Despite Honda’s backing, plans for 2026 could be about to change dramatically. The Austrian team is reportedly considering a major reshuffle of its line-up. Isack Hadjar promoted to the main team and Arvid Lindblad stepping into the Racing Bulls seat. A move that would leave Tsunoda without a clear position for the future.

Yuki Tsunoda, will he follow the american dream?

So, what could be next for the young Japanese driver? If these rumors turn out to be true, Honda would still be keen to support its homegrown talent by offering him a seat in the IndyCar Series. A championship where the Japanese manufacturer has extensive experience and technical expertise.

This would mark the end of Tsunoda’s short-lived Formula 1 career, hindered by a series of underwhelming results with the team. It’s a scenario familiar to many Red Bull drivers before him. After all, staying alongside Verstappen is no easy feat, the psychological and emotional pressure is immense. For that reason, Tsunoda’s departure from F1 might be more than just speculation.

IndyCar expert Tony Donohue has reported that Yuki Tsunoda is already in talks with Dale Coyne Racing for the 2026 season, with full support from Honda. Official confirmation could arrive soon, but according to Donohue, the chances of Tsunoda remaining in Formula 1 are becoming increasingly slim.

F1 2025 Red Bull standings

At present, Tsunoda sits seventeenth in the Formula 1 drivers’ standings, with just 28 points collected over the season. Red Bull, meanwhile, is fourth in the Constructors’ Championship with 346 points — only ten behind Ferrari in second place. With five races left, Tsunoda will need to give everything he has to limit the damage and perhaps prove to the team’s management that he still deserves a place in Formula 1.