Yuki Tsunoda has communicated that Helmut Marko, a Red Bull motorsport advisor, only started to understand the variation between his and Max Verstappen’s Formula 1 vehicle specifications during the Belgian and Hungarian Grand Prix events.
The Japanese racer transitioned to the main Formula 1 team of Red Bull after only a couple of competitions in the 2025 season, taking the position of Liam Lawson, who then returned to Racing Bulls.
However, Tsunoda has been facing scrutiny due to challenges in achieving consistent point scoring, with Marko maintaining a focused observation of the matter.
Nonetheless, after receiving a newly designed chassis floor at Spa-Francorchamps, which was closely aligned with that of his teammate Verstappen, Tsunoda accomplished his highest qualifying result for the Milton Keynes-based team.
This accomplishment has instilled in him the resolve to compete fiercely in the remaining 10 races of the season with the goal of solidifying his prospects for 2026.
“Yes, I definitely need to demonstrate greater performance,” he stated prior to the Dutch Grand Prix this weekend. “But in fact, the two races leading up to the summer break were somewhat helpful.”
Helmut Marko, Red Bull Racing
Photo by: Mark Thompson / Getty Images
“It’s likely that they didn’t fully recognize the extent of the package variations between Max and myself, especially Helmut. However, as soon as they implemented the update, my speed showed a noticeable improvement.
“In Hungary, the disparity between Max and me was minimal from the practice runs onward, demonstrating that I might indeed possess some untapped capability. Therefore, I intend to maintain my current approach, while also striving to integrate all aspects cohesively throughout the week, rather than solely depending on outright pace.
“I am committed to securing points. That’s precisely why I dedicated my summer break to preparation, with the objective of maximizing point accumulation.
“Regarding a specific timeline, we have reached a general understanding concerning the level of performance I need to display in order for them to determine the contract terms for the upcoming year. But, time will reveal what they decide.”
Although Tsunoda is expected to retain his position for the following season, owing to the impending regulation adjustments, Isack Hadjar’s noteworthy initial season with Racing Bulls has elevated him as a potential candidate to partner with Verstappen.
Moreover, despite the prompt denial of speculation linking IndyCar champion Alex Palou before the Zandvoort weekend, the mere continuation of such rumors underscores the precariousness of Tsunoda’s situation.
Yuki Tsunoda, Red Bull Racing Team
Photo by: Zak Mauger / LAT Images via Getty Images
“Helmut might be contemplating [reassigning Tsunoda to Racing Bulls]. To be candid, I’m never fully aware of his thoughts,” Tsunoda confessed.
“However, presently, I perceive that he’s anticipating a demonstration of my capabilities. The two most recent races, following the incorporation of upgrades, appear to have elicited some acknowledgment of my performance.
“In truth, there existed a substantial divergence before this adjustment. I believe this development offers him and me additional duration to monitor the trajectory of the circumstances.
“I feel he has afforded me considerable backing. Yet, he is undeniably a direct individual. His allegiance lies with the team, and he is intent on accruing as many points as achievable. Thus, my performance is imperative.
“If I interpret his stance correctly, he’s adopting a more patient approach to ascertain the optimal course for Red Bull, encompassing potential considerations for Racing Bulls or analogous entities.
“They are currently displaying impressive form, and it’s a team with which I share a lengthy history. Therefore, my paramount aspiration remains with Red Bull. However, the future remains uncertain.”
