Yuki Tsunoda’s Saudi GP Verdict: Signs of Promise, But Questions Remain
Still Settling into the Storm at Red Bull Racing
Yuki Tsunoda’s career remains a study in contrasts—bursts of brilliance offset by untimely errors. With each Grand Prix, he earns praise from seasoned analysts, only to reignite doubts with unforced mistakes. Now, with a sudden promotion to Red Bull Racing, he faces the ultimate yardstick: Max Verstappen.
After the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, it’s clear that while Tsunoda shows promise, there’s still unfinished business. For Red Bull, consistency is key in a season where the McLarens are emerging as serious title contenders.
Promising, Yet Unfinished Business
Tsunoda’s elevation to Red Bull’s main team came just two races into the season—an aggressive move, especially in a year that began with a brutal Japan–Bahrain–Saudi Arabia triple-header.
At Suzuka, he avoided disaster. In Bahrain, he scored his first points for Red Bull. In Saudi Arabia, his pace was decent, and internal feedback was cautiously optimistic. But optimism doesn’t erase the facts: he crashed in FP2, qualified nearly nine-tenths behind Verstappen, and collided with Pierre Gasly on the opening lap—his second crash since joining the top team.
Crashes, Pressure, and Points
Tsunoda’s role is clear: support Verstappen, avoid mistakes, and extract performance from a car he’s only just beginning to understand. That’s a tall order in a field where every detail matters, especially in qualifying.
In Bahrain, he delivered the minimum. In Suzuka and Jeddah, there were glimpses of potential. But consistency is what will define his tenure with Red Bull and the lack there off his critics.
However, even experienced names like Lewis Hamilton and Carlos Sainz Jr. are still adjusting to new environments in 2025. Tsunoda is doing so under far more pressure, in a far less forgiving team culture. Yet, his approachable demeanor has brought some levity to Red Bull’s typically intense garage—a quality that hasn’t gone unnoticed by the likes of Christian Horner.
A Tactical Missed Opportunity
One moment in Jeddah underlined Tsunoda’s growing influence. In Q3, he provided a crucial tow for Verstappen—a selfless act praised internally and in the media. Unfortunately, he couldn’t capitalize on his own final lap.
On race day, had he avoided contact with Gasly, he might have helped slow Oscar Piastri post-pit stop, potentially aiding Verstappen’s chances of regaining the lead.
It’s speculative, but such small details can shape title battles. Red Bull is aware of this. And Tsunoda, too, is learning the strategic nuance required at this level.
Behind the Scenes: Support That Matters
A positive note is the consistent presence of Tsunoda’s manager, Diego Menchaca. Much like Raymond Vermeulen’s involvement with Max Verstappen, Menchaca has become a fixture in the paddock—engaging with key Red Bull figures and offering media support.
This quiet advocacy is critical in high-pressure environments. It ensures Tsunoda’s progress doesn’t go unnoticed and that his voice remains part of internal team conversations.
A Chance to Regroup
Tsunoda isn’t hiding from the challenge. He’s acknowledged the RB21’s complexity and is set for a reset with:
- Simulator work in Milton Keynes (Tuesday)
- Track testing in the 2023 RB21 at Silverstone (Wednesday)
These sessions offer precious mileage, allowing him to build confidence and work through the nuances of car setup and behavior.
Looking Ahead: Can Miami Be a Turning Point?
The desire to see Tsunoda succeed is widespread—from Red Bull engineers to fans in Japan. With more seat time and fewer distractions, he has the tools to justify his promotion.
The potential is there. Now, it’s about execution and the Miami GP only two weeks time.
