Yuki Tsunoda replaces a sulking Verstappen at Red Bull Racing

After the Japanese Grand Prix, the action at the iconic Suzuka circuit isn’t over. A Pirelli test is scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday. During this test, the teams of Red Bull Racing and Racing Bulls will take to the track.

Max Verstappen, who is currently quite frustrated with the technical regulations, is the major absentee during this test, which focuses on dry tyres.

The Dutchman returned to Monaco in the early hours of Monday after a long flight from Japan, where he finished no higher than eighth in the Grand Prix.

In any case, Yuki Tsunoda will have the opportunity to replace him during the tyre test. For Tsunoda, it will be the first time he drives a Red Bull at a circuit since he was sidelined as Verstappen’s teammate after the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The Japanese driver did, however, take part in a demonstration run in the United States.

It remains unclear whether Isack Hadjar will also take part in the test.

For Racing Bulls, Liam Lawson and Arvid Lindblad will be present. The New Zealander will drive the car on Tuesday, while his British teammate takes over on Wednesday.

The test in Japan is not Pirelli’s only one in the coming weeks. GPblog has already reported that there will also be running at a place that is very special to Max Verstappen.