Helmut Marko hints Yuki Tsunoda could partner Max Verstappen in 2025 despite Liam Lawson’s RB call-up

Helmut Marko has suggested that Yuki Tsunoda could join Max Verstappen at Red Bull in 2025 if he outperforms Liam Lawson at VCARB.

Helmut Marko hints Yuki Tsunoda could partner Max Verstappen in 2025 despite Liam Lawson’s RB call-up

Helmut Marko Yuki Tsunoda (images via IMAGO)

As the 2024 Formula 1 season unfolds, Sergio Perez finds himself in a precarious position at Red Bull Racing. Despite starting the season strongly, his recent performance has dropped, raising concerns about his future with the team.

Although Red Bull announced Perez’s contract extension during the Chinese Grand Prix to boost his morale, uncertainty overshadows his seat for 2025. Red Bull advisor Helmut Mark has claimed that Yuki Tsunoda could be a potential replacement to partner with reigning champion Max Verstappen.

This season, Yuki Tsunoda has delivered impressive performances when compared to Sergio Perez, particularly in the early races. He frequently finished in the top ten, including a notable seventh place in Australia.

Helmut Marko noted that this strong showing has kept Tsunoda in the running as a potential replacement for Checo at Red Bull. Meanwhile, Liam Lawson, who recently replaced Daniel Ricciardo at VCARB, could also be a candidate if he manages to outperform his teammate in the final six races of the season

Tsunoda is a candidate to drive alongside Max in 2025. The remaining races of this season will decide what our driver pairings will look like for next year. I can very well imagine that a junior driver will drive alongside Max. So Tsunoda or Lawson.

Helmut Marko told F1insider.com

Marko asserts that the trend of hiring young talent in Formula 1, which began with drivers like Ricciardo and Max Verstappen, is making a strong comeback. Top teams, including Mercedes, are embracing this strategy by signing promising young drivers.

Recently, Mercedes announced the signing of 18-year-old Kimi Antonelli as a potential replacement for Lewis Hamilton, who is joining Ferrari. Marko emphasized that teams like Mercedes and Haas are adopting Red Bull’s philosophy of nurturing young talents into top drivers.

We started with the philosophy of giving young drivers a chance in Formula 1, Mercedes is giving Kimi Antonelli a chance, Haas Oliver Bearman, Williams Franco Colapinto and it seems that, fortunately, Audi is now seriously considering the young Mick Schumacher.

Helmut Marko added

F1 reporter labels Yuki as ‘indestructible character’ compared to others

According to a Sky Sports F1 expert, Yuki Tsunoda’s resilience and strong character make him a standout driver in Formula 1. The expert highlights Tsunoda’s unique mental toughness, which sets him apart from his competitors.

Yuki Tsunoda (via IMAGO)
Yuki Tsunoda (via IMAGO)

This strength is crucial when facing pressure from drivers like Max Verstappen, who often challenges his teammates. Unlike Sergio Perez, who struggles under scrutiny, Tsunoda is unlikely to feel mentally overwhelmed. His ability to stay focused would allow him to perform at his best on the track.

Tsunoda is a contentious driver. I can’t imagine that he would be mentally destroyed by Max like all the others. He is an indestructible character.

A Sky Sports expert said

The Japanese driver’s talent in high-pressure situations makes him a valuable asset for Red Bull. With the team aiming to develop young talent, he deserves a chance with the main team. However, the 24-year-old must first prove that he is a more capable driver than Liam Lawson.