Tsunoda's struggle at Red Bull: Honda head states he is 'not yet' at Verstappen's level
Updated: 12:09, 18 Jul 2025
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Co-author:Toby Nixon
Ludo van Denderen is a motorsport journalist at GPblog, specializing in Formula 1 and international racing series. With decades of experience in sports journalism and a long-standing presence in the paddock, he delivers reliable analysis, exclusive interviews, and in-depth coverage of the global motorsport world.
Yuki Tsunoda, currently driving for Red Bull Racing, has yet to make a lasting impact. The Japanese driver has scored just seven points over ten race weekends, in stark contrast to teammate Max Verstappen’s 165-point haul this season. Koji Watanabe, head of Honda Racing Corporation (HRC), has shed light on why such a large gap exists between the two drivers.
Tsunoda was promoted from Racing Bulls to Red Bull Racing after just two races, amid high expectations. However, his stint alongside Max Verstappen has so far been underwhelming, with the Japanese driver mostly finishing outside the points.
Tsunoda appears to be struggling with the RB21 even more than Verstappen, who has also voiced concerns about the car's performance.
Why can the Dutchman tame the beast while Tsunoda cannot? "Max is an outstanding driver, and I think he [Tsunoda] is not yet at his level," he said to Auto Sport Web.
Koji Watanabe believes in Red Bull's resurgence
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'Red Bull to show fighting spirit'
At the same time, he acknowledges that the current Red Bull car is no match for its rivals, such as McLaren. The papaya-clad team have 460 points compared to Red Bull's 172 at the halfway stage of the 2025 F1 season.
Still, Watanabe remains confident that the Austrian team will make strides as the season progresses.
"If I am positive, I do not believe Red Bull will end like this. I firmly believe they will show their fighting spirit and make a comeback.
"Red Bull is also aware that there are still improvements to be made to their car. I have no doubt that Red Bull is one of the best teams."
"Red Bull is also aware that there are still improvements to be made to their car. I have no doubt that Red Bull is one of the best teams."
Honda will supply engines to Aston Martin from next season. A return to Red Bull has been ruled out due to their quest to make their own in-house engines in collaboration with Ford.
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