Yuki Tsunoda, a Japanese driver for the satellite team Visa RB, is seeking more assurance from Red Bull Racing about his future in the sport. Due to the contract extension of Sergio Pérez, a promotion within Red Bull seems unlikely for now. “I would like to see more commitments in the contract,” Tsunoda admitted at the FIA press conference in Montreal.
In the lead-up to the Canadian Grand Prix, Tsunoda was naturally asked about the impact Pérez’s contract extension at Red Bull has on him personally. Tsunoda is having a strong season with Visa RB, but a reward in the form of a seat at Red Bull is not on the cards for 2025. This means that he will likely be entering his fifth season with Visa RB next year. According to Red Bull’s motorsport advisor, he will then form a line-up with either Daniel Ricciardo or Liam Lawson. However, signatures for a new contract with Visa RB have not yet been set.
Tsunoda’s Ambitions and Contract Negotiations with Red Bull
“I’m not in a hurry to get promoted to Red Bull,” Tsunoda stated. However, he added a significant caveat. “I would like to see more commitments in my contract. It’s clear that there are many agreements with Red Bull. Hopefully, I can get some more commitments. Discussions are currently underway, and I want to make sure we are on the same page with Red Bull.”
Tsunoda: ‘Just Keep Growing’
Tsunoda did express his support for Pérez’s contract extension. Unlike Tsunoda, Pérez has once again found himself in a slump. “Pérez still needs to perform in the next two years,” Tsunoda said, referring to the Mexican’s new contract period. “In these kinds of circumstances, anything can happen. Congratulations to him, and I will continue to focus on what I do and prove myself. I just need to keep growing and make sure Red Bull can’t ignore me at some point.”
There is also interest from other teams in the paddock, Tsunoda confirmed. Honda, Red Bull’s current engine supplier, has already indicated that they would like to stay connected with the Japanese driver in the future. Honda will be the engine supplier for Aston Martin from 2026.
Tsunoda: “It’s positive that other teams are starting to show interest in me, but Red Bull remains my priority. However, I want to make sure we are on the same page. Red Bull has been a significant part of my life so far. Without Red Bull, I wouldn’t have achieved as much.”
