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2w ago

Red Bull Commits to Tsunoda as RB21 Struggles Persist

Yuki Tsunoda’s seat status will be decided after the summer break by senior advisor Helmut Marko.

Max Verstappen of the Netherlands and Oracle Red Bull Racing answers questions in the TV media pen during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Hungary at Hungaroring on August 2, 2025 in Budapest, Hungary.
Yuki Tsunoda of Japan and Oracle Red Bull Racing on the drivers parade prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Hungary at Hungaroring on August 03, 2025 in Budapest, Hungary.
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Overview

  • Red Bull remains third in the constructors' championship with only two wins from 14 races and trails McLaren by 97 points after a ninth-place finish for Max Verstappen and 17th for Yuki Tsunoda at the Hungarian Grand Prix.
  • The RB21’s narrow setup window and inconsistent grip frustrated both drivers in Hungary, leaving Verstappen struggling for pace and Tsunoda recording his seventh consecutive race without scoring points.
  • Laurent Mekies rejected the idea of importing upgrades from sister team Racing Bulls, stating the RB21’s fundamental design differences prevent any technical crossover.
  • Mekies confirmed that Red Bull will not make a second driver change this season and has prioritized giving Tsunoda the tools and confidence to improve.
  • Helmut Marko confirmed that Tsunoda’s 2026 seat will be assessed after the summer break, with both his qualifying progress and race results under review.