Stroll to be replaced by Tsunoda? 'There's definitely a chance'

Yuki Tsunoda is making a good impression at Visa Cash App RB this season. Koji Watanabe, the CEO of Honda Racing Corporation (HRC), hopes Tsunoda will get a chance at Red Bull Racing. There is also a chance at Aston Martin, according to the Honda chief, should things not work out at Red Bull.

Tsunoda is beating Daniel Ricciardo in 2024. The Japanese driver finished ahead of his teammate in four qualifying sessions with an average difference of 0.218s. On Sunday, the duel is also in the Japanese driver's favour. Tsunoda scored seven points against the zero points next to his more experienced teammate's name.

Tsunoda is part of the Red Bull family but is also still part of the Honda family. That will remain the case when Honda ends their partnership with Red Bull at the end of 2025 and starts supplying engines to Aston Martin. Watanabe even hopes Tsunoda will get the chance at Red Bull Racing.

Tsunoda a replacement for Stroll?

"I think it's a very beautiful story that Tsunoda would first play an active role at RB and then be promoted to Red Bull. Even if it's after we're gone, we would like to keep a close eye on him rising to the top teams. Tsunoda has graduated from the Honda Racing school, so that’s why from the HRC point of view it’s our dream that HRC students can become top drivers. So, it’s really important that Yuki becomes a top driver in Formula 1," the Honda chief told Motorsport.com.

Since Honda will be partnering with Aston Martin, it seems that the Japanese engine suppliers would be keen to see Tsunoda at Aston Martin. However, with a new contract for Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll seemingly assured of a seat with his father's team, there seems no chance for Tsunoda there. Watanabe, however, sees that differently.

"We still don't know what Aston Martin's line-up will be like. Alonso has been confirmed, but I have not yet heard that Stroll has been confirmed. I don't think there is a zero chance of that happening, so I think there is a possibility of that happening at this point."