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Tsunoda Admits Nerves as Red Bull Delays 2026 Driver Decision to Season’s End

Only Max Verstappen is confirmed for 2026 as expected promotions could set up a TsunodaLawson fight for the last Red Bull-controlled seat.

Overview

  • Red Bull has shifted its target for confirming the 2026 lineup from late November to potentially after Abu Dhabi, extending the evaluation window.
  • Yuki Tsunoda acknowledged he is nervous about his future and says closing the qualifying gap to Verstappen and scoring in the remaining races is his focus.
  • Since replacing Liam Lawson 19 rounds ago, Tsunoda has scored points in only six events, citing missed chances in Mexico and Brazil.
  • Paddock expectation is that Isack Hadjar will be promoted to partner Verstappen with Arvid Lindblad stepping up to Racing Bulls, leaving one seat for Tsunoda or Lawson.
  • Tsunoda says he aims to boost Red Bull’s push against Mercedes for second in the constructors’ standings, starting with the Las Vegas round.