Yuki Tsunoda has admitted he was taken aback by Red Bull’s choice to move him into a reserve driver position ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season. The decision came as a shock to the Japanese racer, who had expected to remain in a more active role within the team.
Tsunoda revealed that he became aware of rumours circulating inside the paddock that hinted at a major shake-up at Red Bull. Those whispers suggested changes that could have significantly reshaped the team’s future, leaving him uncertain about his place.
Despite those early signs, Tsunoda did not anticipate being sidelined. He explained that the final call still caught him off guard, particularly given his experience and familiarity with the Red Bull environment.
From 2026, Tsunoda will no longer be part of the main driver lineup and will instead support the team from the background. This marks a notable shift in his Formula 1 journey after several seasons of competing on the grid.
Red Bull ultimately chose to promote Tsunoda’s former teammate, Isack Hadjar, into the race seat. The move signals a new direction for the team, while Tsunoda is left to reassess his future ambitions within the sport.
About the Author
