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Honda Racing Corporation president Koji Watanabe has expressed his support for Yuki Tsunoda for a test run in Red Bull machinery, personally discussing the matter with team principal Christian Horner. Now in his fourth season in F1, Tsunoda has not yet had the opportunity to test for Red Bull, having only participated in demo runs for the senior team.
Tsunoda is backed by the Japanese manufacturer, which serves as the engine supplier for both sister teams. However, Red Bull's top management has not considered the 24-year-old Japanese driver for a promotion, as the relatively inexperienced Liam Lawson is believed to be ahead in the queue to replace the underperforming Sergio Perez.
As Red Bull continues to overlook Yuki Tsunoda, Honda boss Watanabe has engaged in discussions with Horner regarding a test run for the Japanese driver. The HRC president hopes Tsunoda will get the chance to showcase his abilities in Red Bull machinery. While nothing is confirmed yet, Horner has not dismissed the possibility of such a test taking place.
"Regarding Tsunoda, our goal is for him to work hard and secure a seat at Red Bull Racing. We believe he has the talent. Of course, driver decisions are ultimately up to the team, but as a partner we've strongly requested that Tsunoda be given the chance to drive and test in a Red Bull car. We want to at least give him the opportunity to showcase his ability." the Honda president told motorsport.com.
"I've also spoken directly with Christian about this. He hasn't ruled it out. Nothing has been decided yet, but I think we need to proceed properly." he added.
The HRC president expressed his desire to see Tsunoda eventually join the senior team and compete for championships beyond 2025, even though their partnership will conclude after the upcoming season. Watanabe also hopes that F2 driver Ayumu Iwasa will take on a reserve role within the Red Bull family next season while racing in Super Formula.
Yuki Tsunoda aims to accomplish targets for Red Bull promotion
Yuki Tsunoda has frequently faced questions about being overlooked for a Red Bull promotion. Frustrated with such questions, he remains focused on his responsibilities and is dedicated to helping RB secure a P6 finish in the constructors' championship.
The 24-year-old Japanese driver insists that his promotion is ultimately tied to his performance and hopes that the top bosses at Red Bull take note of his achievements. He was quoted by Formula1.com as saying:
"Like we saw in our team, it’s performance-related all the time and, if I perform well, hopefully those guys will see it. You never know, I never know, I can’t control those things anyway."
Tsunoda also confirmed that he must accomplish a couple of targets to be considered for the Red Bull seat; however, it remains unclear whether he will receive the promotion even after meeting these goals.
"It’s pretty clear the things I have to improve...I don’t know if they will decide to put me in [the car]".
Yuki Tsunoda is confirmed to drive for RB next year, after signing an extension deal back in June.
