Some rumors suggest that Yuki Tsunoda could be leaving F1, as the Japanese driver is considering a future in IndyCar with the backing of Honda.
Yuki Tsunoda’s future could soon take a new direction. After four seasons spent between Racing Bulls and Red Bull, the Japanese driver faces a serious risk of being left without a Formula 1 seat for 2026. The Milton Keynes team is reportedly planning a major shake-up of its driver lineup: in addition to the possible promotion of Isack Hadjar alongside Max Verstappen, young prospect Arvid Lindblad is also on track for a debut in the top category with Racing Bulls.
Tsunoda to IndyCar with Honda’s support
Since his season debut in Japan with Red Bull, the Japanese driver has collected 28 points so far, struggling to find the right confidence with the Milton Keynes car. Only recently has he managed to partially bounce back, securing results that have proven useful for the drivers’ championship, where he currently sits in 17th place.
The 24-year-old, however, may not be left without a seat. According to the latest reports from insider Tony Donohue, his future could lie overseas — specifically in IndyCar. From the very start of his career, Tsunoda has been a trusted Honda protégé, with the Japanese manufacturer supporting his rise through the junior formulas all the way to Formula 1. And it could once again be Honda that provides him with a concrete alternative should he part ways with the F1 paddock: Tsunoda might join Dale Coyne Racing with official Honda backing as early as 2026.
For his part, Tsunoda doesn’t seem ready to throw in the towel, convinced he still has a shot to prove himself in Formula 1. As he told Motorsport Week, the Japanese driver wants to continue in the championship, though he’s well aware that the final decision rests with Red Bull management: “ I’m confident in what I’ve done and in the situation I’m in. I’ve been part of the Red Bull family for five years now, and I know how things work here. I’ve found myself in this kind of situation pretty much every year so far. I know how things are handled at Red Bull. So I’ll just keep proving my worth and making the most of every opportunity “.
Yuki Tsunoda’s future therefore remains in Red Bull’s hands. On one side, the junior program seems increasingly focused on a generational change; on the other, his strong ties with Honda could offer him a second chance overseas. Between Formula 1 and IndyCar, 2026 could mark a turning point for the Japanese driver — whether inside or outside the paddock, he’ll continue to have the support of the manufacturer that has stood by him since the very beginning.
Photo: Oracle Red Bull Racing
