Yuki Tsunoda will race for Red Bull next year, with Honda set to contribute financially to the Milton Keynes-based team
Liam Lawson returns to Racing Bulls. At Suzuka, starting from the next Grand Prix, his seat at Red Bull will be taken by Yuki Tsunoda—a move strongly backed by Honda, according to Dutch newspaper De Limburger.
The Japanese giant was reportedly ready to pay an additional €10 million to Red Bull to secure a seat for the Japanese driver in 2025. Currently, Honda already funds Racing Bulls with the same amount, but last year, Christian Horner turned down the extra financial support in favor of Lawson. However, with the New Zealander’s disappointing performances in Australia and China, the situation has now shifted.
Tsunoda to Red Bull: A Multi-Million Deal
According to De Limburger, Red Bull has resumed talks with Honda to determine the cost of a deal that would see Tsunoda partner Max Verstappen. Honda’s response? “Several million dollars,” as the Japanese company has expressed its willingness to finance Tsunoda’s move to the senior team.
The news has also been reported by Canal+, Dutch outlet De Telegraaf, and F1inGenerale, further confirming that the deal could already be in its final stages—something GPKingdom previously reported. Now, all that remains is the official announcement. Lawson, meanwhile, is set to return to his original team, closing the debate that initially favored the Dutchman at the end of 2024.
And Colapinto? No VCARB for Franco
Despite recent rumors, Franco Colapinto will be left on the sidelines. The Argentine driver, who was strongly linked to a Racing Bulls seat according to Spanish media, will remain with Alpine as a reserve driver—a role he likely won’t hold for long.
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