Yuki Tsunoda recently had his first-ever run in an up-to-date Red Bull car during the post-season test at the Yas Marina Circuit, after four seasons with the team’s sister team.

This test was arranged by Tsunoda’s long-time backer, Honda Racing Corporation (HRC), as the Japanese manufacturer hopes to see him promoted to Red Bull’s senior team.

The timing is crucial, as Red Bull is currently reviewing its driver lineup for 2025, especially with growing speculation around the future of Sergio Perez.

Although Tsunoda has been part of the Red Bull family since 2021, it was only at the 2024 Abu Dhabi test that he got the chance to drive for the senior team.

Despite his potential, Tsunoda has often been overlooked in discussions about who could replace Perez if the Mexican driver is dropped with concerns about his temperament in the car leading to doubts about his readiness for a promotion.

However, Tsunoda is optimistic that his performance at the Yas Marina Circuit could help change this perception. Speaking at a Honda event, he revealed that the feedback from his Red Bull debut was encouraging, and he believes he has shown the team that he is capable of handling the responsibilities of a senior team driver. 

“I heard a lot about how impressed they were, particularly with my feedback.

“This came not only from the trackside engineers but also from the engineers supporting remotely from Red Bull’s factory in Milton Keynes. They mentioned how impressed they were with my input.

“That area was a key target for me. I believe Red Bull already understands that my speed isn’t much of an issue. Instead, what they’re more focused on is things like my feedback, my behaviour within the team, and how I conduct myself in the car. They probably saw those areas as the biggest unknowns.

“So while keeping that in mind, I continued to provide feedback as I always have, aiming to communicate as thoroughly and with as much detail as possible.”

While Tsunoda has made a strong argument for himself, his teammate Liam Lawson still remains the favorite to step into the Red Bull seat if Perez is replaced, but the Japanese still remains hopeful.

“I think the chances are 50-50. Of course, I’d be happiest if I could drive for Red Bull, but I’m incredibly grateful for all the support I’m receiving from everyone in this current situation.

“Regardless of which team I’m with, what I need to do remains the same. It’s not just about Red Bull. For all we know, VCARB might surpass them in development. It’s not like it absolutely has to be Red Bull.

“I don’t know what’s going to happen, but I just want to perform well and score points. Standing on the podium at Suzuka would be the ultimate dream. But, to achieve that, I want to help build a better car and a better team someday.

“Until that time comes, I hope everyone can be patient.”