Tsunoda eyes potential US switch as F1 career options look limited

After a difficult year as Max Verstappen’s teammate, Red Bull Racing dropped Yuki Tsunoda this past winter in favour of Isack Hadjar. While Hadjar is making a solid impression alongside the former world champion, Tsunoda is spending his days as a reserve driver for Red Bull Racing and occasionally Racing Bulls. Meanwhile, his Mexican manager is pushing for a return to a full-time Formula 1 seat.

Where Tsunoda’s name frequently came up during last year’s silly season, that is not the case now. He has only been linked with Haas. However, GPblog understands that Tsunoda is not an option for the American team for 2027.

They are considering signing a Japanese driver, but that driver would need to come from partner Toyota’s stable. As is well known, Tsunoda has been the face of rival Honda for years.

Haas is not necessarily fixated on a Japanese driver. In addition to Oliver Bearman—who is set to remain with Haas—current driver Esteban Ocon, Rafael Camara (Ferrari Academy), and Leonardo Fornaroli (McLaren reserve driver) are also firmly in the frame.

Yuki Tsunoda is increasingly looking beyond Formula 1. His ties with Honda remain strong, which helps with a potential move to the United States. Honda is one of the two engine suppliers in IndyCar, and therefore holds influence within the paddock there.

For Tsunoda, racing in the American counterpart to Formula 1 could yield significant financial and sporting rewards. In IndyCar, the level of competition is not that of a Verstappen or Lewis Hamilton, making it possible for lesser lights to win major races.

Takuma Sato could serve as an example for Tsunoda: a Japanese driver who struggled to make a mark in Formula 1 but won the prestigious Indy 500 twice in the U.S. As recently as last season, the now 49-year-old competed in this iconic event.

Sato’s years in IndyCar earned him several million in salaries and sponsorships—exactly what Tsunoda can likely secure if he moves across the ocean. With Honda behind him, all of Japan will continue to follow the performances of their most successful Formula 1 driver ever, especially if Tsunoda can land at a top team.

A seat is likely to open up at Chip Ganassi if Scott Dixon bows out as expected. The most successful IndyCar team at the moment uses Honda power units. Reigning champion and current championship leader Alex Palou drives for this team.