Shockwaves at Red Bull: Tsunoda Set to Be Axed as Verstappen’s 2026 Teammate Hunt Begins
Whispers from the paddock suggest a significant shift is brewing at Red Bull Racing ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season. According to recent reports, Yuki Tsunoda is likely to be dropped from the Red Bull driver program at the end of 2025 due to what insiders are describing as a string of underwhelming performances. While the Japanese driver has shown flashes of promise since his debut, it appears Red Bull is no longer convinced he’s the long-term solution for their top-tier ambitions.
Meanwhile, reigning world champion Max Verstappen is expected to stay with the team, solidifying his role as the cornerstone of Red Bull’s future plans—especially as the sport prepares to usher in sweeping regulation changes in 2026. Verstappen’s loyalty to Red Bull, despite recent internal tensions and speculation about his long-term future, seems to have settled for now.
With Tsunoda potentially on his way out and Sergio Pérez already under scrutiny due to inconsistent results, Red Bull may be poised for a complete overhaul of their second seat. The search for Verstappen’s new teammate is already generating buzz, with several names from within and outside the Red Bull ecosystem being floated as potential candidates.
As the team headquartered in Milton Keynes prepares for this pivotal transition, all eyes will be on who earns the coveted spot alongside Verstappen. One thing is clear: Red Bull is planning to enter the new era of Formula 1 with a refreshed lineup—and with championship ambitions firmly in sight.
