By Ed Green
Can Yuki Tsunoda make his way back to Formula 1?
After losing his Red Bull seat at the conclusion of the 2025 season, Yuki Tsunoda will be watching 2026’s Formula 1 action from the sidelines. Whilst he has managed to land a test and reserve role with the Milton Keynes outfit, there is no doubt that Tsunoda will be seeking a return to the grid in 2027; but is this likely to happen?
Opportunity #1: Aston Martin
If Tsunoda is given the chance to make an F1 comeback, it is likely to come from Aston Martin. Lawrence Stroll’s team will be sporting a Honda power unit from 2026 onwards, leaving the door open for Tsunoda (a Honda driver) to join the team. Tsunoda’s confidence will be boosted by current Aston Martin driver Fernando Alonso telling AS.com, “If the car goes well, there’s a good chance it [2026] will be my last year”, as this could mean there is a vacant seat for the Japanese driver to fill.
However, if Alonso remains in the sport for a few more seasons, Aston Martin will likely retain their current lineup (as Lance Stroll is essentially guaranteed a seat by his father), leaving Tsunoda out of the picture.
Opportunity #2: Racing Bulls
With Racing Bulls fielding an inexperienced rookie this season, there is the possibility of a Tsunoda return if things don’t work out for Arvid Lindblad. Red Bull are known for being ruthless with their drivers, so if Lindblad’s performances are not up to scratch by the Summer break, Tsunoda could find himself back in a seat this season.
In this scenario, Tsunoda would probably not keep his seat for 2027; Racing Bulls is a junior team, and Tsunoda had his chance with the senior Red Bull team and didn’t meet management’s expectations. It therefore seems counterproductive for Red Bull to keep Tsunoda in their Formula 1 set-up long term.
Opportunity #3: Haas
With Ollie Bearman linked to Ferrari for 2027 (amid speculation that Lewis Hamilton could retire at the end of the year), there is a strong possibility that Haas will have a vacant seat next season. Team boss Ayao Komatsu has not ruled out hiring Tsunoda, making Haas a credible option for him next year.
Whilst ex-drivers often struggle to return to the grid, Tsunoda will be hoping to replicate the likes of Alex Albon, Nico Hülkenberg, Sergio Pérez and Valtteri Bottas by making a comeback to the sport after losing his seat. Whilst there are multiple opportunities for the Japanese driver in 2027, competition from other skilled drivers will be fierce, so Tsunoda will have to give his all in his test & reserve role to prove he is the man for the job.
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